Contraception and Birth Control - The Basic Information

Contraception and Birth Control Contraception is defined as the prevention of conception through intentional means. Also known as birth control, contraception may entail the use of certain devices, drugs or chemicals, as well as various sexual practices or even surgical procedures. Several types of contraceptives have been officially recognized as such due to their proven ability to prevent contraception.

Contraception is synonymous with the use of contraceptives, birth control methods, family planning or otherwise any efforts proven to prevent pregnancy.

Contraception generally falls in one of three categories: natural birth control methods, over-the-counter contraceptive products, or prescription contraceptives.

Natural contraception is one of the oldest forms of birth control and typically falls under the general idea of family planning. Natural birth control methods include abstinence -- the complete avoidance of intercourse or any other sexual activity that risks conception, withdrawal -- a method whereby the male withdraws his penis from the vagina prior to ejaculation, and "outercourse" -- sexual activities that preclude vaginal intercourse. Of these natural contraception methods, only abstinence can be guaranteed 100% effective. Both withdrawal and "outercourse" have conception risks associated with the male ejaculate in proximity to the vaginal opening.

Over-the-counter (OTC) contraceptives are typically considered to be birth control methods that prevent sperm from contacting an egg. The primary non-prescription contraception methods available include the male condom, female condom, spermicidal gels and jellies, and the sponge. Recently, the Morning After Pill, or "Plan B" has received attention as an emergency contraceptive.

Prescription birth control methods include medically prescribed hormones in a variety of delivery methods, and devices or barriers that are intended to prevent conception. The most commonly used form of prescription contraception is The Pill, known to be one of the safest and most effective methods of birth control. Other prescription hormone-based contraceptives include the Depo Provera shot (DMPA), the NuvaRing, and the Ortho Evra patch. Barriers and devices include diaphragms and intrauterine devices (IUD).

Choosing a specific birth control method should involve, among other things, consideration of an individual's comfort level with a given method, the need or ability of that method to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), ease-of-use and convenience, the ability to conceive in the future, side effects, and the overall effectiveness of a particular method of contraception.

Buy Condoms and Female Contraceptives Online

Birth Control Methods

Contraceptive methods generally fall under one of three categories: natural birth control, over-the-counter contraceptives, or prescription birth control methods ... see: Birth Control Methods

Condoms

Condoms are proven safe and effective as contraception devices and are readily available over-the-counter at local pharmacies and markets. Condoms may also be purchased online ... see Condoms

Female Condoms

The female condom is another safe and effective over-the-counter method of birth control, available at most drug stores, clinics and online retailers ... see Female Condoms

Birth Control Pills

Perhaps the most well known and frequently used method of contraception, the pill is an oral contraceptive medication available by prescription only ... see Birth Control Pills

Morning After Pill

The morning after pill is an emergency contraceptive treatment used within the first few hours after unprotected sex or failure of preemptive birth control methods ... see Morning After Pill

Birth Control Patch

The birth control patch is a prescription-only contraceptive that works in much the same manner as the birth control pill in preventing unwanted pregnancy ... see Birth Control Patch

Contraceptive Sponges

Contraceptive sponges are over-the-counter birth control devices designed to block sperm from reaching and fertilizing an egg. Spermicide is also released to further immobilize sperm ... see Contraceptive Sponges