What Are Some Methods of Contraception?
• Barrier methods. Barrier methods, such as condoms, the diaphragm and the cervical cap, are designed to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg for fertilization. • Intrauterine Device. Intrauterine device, or IUD, is a small device that is inserted into the uterus by a health care provider. The IUD prevents a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. An IUD can stay in the uterus for up to 10 years until it is removed by a health care provider. • Hormonal Birth Control. Hormonal birth control, such as birth control pills, injections, skin patches and vaginal rings, release hormones into a woman’s body that interfere with fertility by preventing ovulation, fertilization or implantation. • Sterilization. Sterilization is a method that permanently prevents a woman from getting pregnant or a man from being able to get a woman pregnant. Sterilization involves surgical procedures that must be done by a health care provider and usually cannot be reversed.
