Birth Control

For those individuals who are not quite ready to start a family yet, there are a wide variety of birth control options to choose from. Some aid in preventing against the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, whereas others are for the sole purpose of preventing pregnancy. One can review the different options and see which one works best for them.

Condoms

One type of birth control method is condoms. Condoms are worn by the male and prevent pregnancy by blocking the entry of sperm into the woman's vagina. Condoms are beneficial not only for preventing pregnancy but for protecting against STDs as well.

Birth Control Pill

The birth control pill is a type of oral contraceptive which the female takes each day. This will protect against ovulation thereby preventing pregnancy from occurring. In order for the pill to work effectively it must be taken every day.

Ortho Evra Patch

Another type of hormone contraceptive that works similar to the pill in preventing contraception is the Ortho Evra patch. This is a prescription birth control method that comes in the form of a patch. A patch is placed on specific regions of the woman's body for three weeks in a row. Each week has a new patch. Then there is a one week, the fourth week, that is patch free. The patch releases hormones which help prevent pregnancy.

Contraceptive Sponge

Another birth control option is the contraceptive sponge. This contraceptive is comprised of a foam material with spermicide that is inserted into the woman's vagina prior to intercourse. This type of contraception can be purchased over the counter at various drugstores.

These are some of the more popular birth control methods available today. Although there are other various forms of contraception, these tend to be the most frequently used methods. It is important to note that the only contraception method listed above which helps prevent the transmission of STDs is the condom. In addition, each one varies with regard to their rate of success so it is important to look further into each option prior to deciding on a specific one.