Multiple birth control methods are available to prevent unwanted pregnancy, like physical barriers, pills, devices, and procedures. That said, one method does not suit every woman, and several factors influence the choice of the most effective mode of birth control. This article lists some easily available contraceptives, but seeking professional advice is recommended before making a choice.

1. Emergency contraception
As the name suggests, this mode of contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy when taken at the earliest after intercourse. It is suitable for use in case of unprotected sexual activity or when the primary contraceptive method fails. It is popularly available in the form of pills that work by temporarily keeping the eggs from being released from the ovaries. Ideally, the pill should be taken within 3-5 days of having participated in sexual activity.

2. Barrier methods
These are the most popularly used modes of birth control, and almost all barrier contraceptives are designed to act as physical barriers to prevent the sperm from meeting the egg. Barrier methods include devices like male and female condoms, cervical caps, diaphragms, sponges, and spermicides. All of these contraceptives are safe to use and effective. In fact, condoms prevent unwanted pregnancy and also offer protection against Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

3. Short-acting hormonal contraceptives
Short-term hormonal contraceptives are 90-95% effective modes of birth control. These contraceptives prevent pregnancy by altering the estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. Hormonal contraceptives are most commonly administered in the form of birth control pills, but there are also other options like the birth control shot, patch, and vaginal ring. The frequency of the administration of each of these contraceptives varies.

4. Long-acting reversible contraceptives
These are another group of effective modes of birth control. Unlike the other options, long-term reversible contraceptives can be used for longer. These methods are 99% effective and can be reversed if one wants to conceive. The most popular forms include two devices: an implant that is inserted into the arm and Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) that are placed in the uterus. Depending on the type and quality of the device, this birth control method is effective for 3-10 years. These devices keep the sperm from fertilizing the egg to prevent pregnancy.

5. Permanent birth control – female and male sterilization
Sterilization is the best and the most effective mode of birth control for individuals who are sure that they don’t want to conceive in the future. Tubal ligation or tubectomy in women and vasectomy in men prevent pregnancy by keeping the sperm and the egg from coming in contact. Both surgical procedures have minimal risks, and the recovery period is also short. And contrary to common misconception, these procedures do not affect an individual’s libido.