Birth control or fertility control is a method used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. If one is not ready to have a child or do not want to conceive due to health issues, they can use one of the various birth control methods. Here’s a list of a few effective modes of birth control that one can opt for:

• Birth control pill:  This is one of the most common and effective modes of birth control. Most pills use progestin and estrogen to prevent ovulation and pregnancy, and women may also benefit with regular menstrual cycles and less cramping. However, this method does not offer any protection against STDs.
• Birth control patch:  If one forgets to take the pills daily, they can opt for a birth control patch instead. This patch is worn on the skin and changed once a week. One has to wear it for 3 weeks and skip the fourth one. The patches work like birth control pills by releasing the same hormones through the skin.
• Male condom:  This is one of the most effective modes of birth control. A condom is a thin tube of latex that prevents the sperm from entering the woman’s body. It prevents unplanned pregnancy and also alleviates one’s chances of developing certain STDs.
• Female condom:  A female condom is a thin pouch of plastic or latex that lines the vagina and blocks sperm from entering. This birth control method can be inserted up to 8 hours before sexual activity, and they also help prevent some STDs.
• Birth control or contraceptive sponge:  This is a round sponge made of foam and contains spermicide to kill sperm and prevent pregnancy. The sponge can be placed against the cervix for up to 24 hours and is effective for multiple acts of sexual intercourse.
• Diaphragm:  This is a flexible and soft rubber disk used to block the cervix before sex. It is covered with a spermicide before use to prevent pregnancy. A diaphragm is inexpensive and does not cause any hormonal changes. It can be used for 24 hours, but one must cover it with more spermicide every 6 hours.
• Cervical cap:  This is a soft and flexible device that fits over the cervix. One of the most effective methods to stop sperm from entering a woman’s uterus, a cervical cap is used with spermicide.
• Birth control implant:  In this method, a doctor places a flexible rod almost of the size of a matchstick under the skin of a woman’s arm. This rod releases the progestin hormone into the woman’s bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. It is expensive but also one of the most reliable birth control methods.

The copper intrauterine device, intrauterine hormonal device, hormonal pills, shots, and vaginal rings are some of the other effective modes of birth control. While even the most effective methods can fail at times, they significantly lower the chances of pregnancy.