Contraception is the use of certain methods to prevent pregnancy. Many different types of contraception are available, but not all might suit you. With the help of an expert, you can zero in on the best contraceptive method, depending on your age, health, medical history, frequency of sex, and your desire to have children.

Here are some different birth control types, out of which you can choose one for yourself under proper guidance.

1. Hormonal methods

• Short-acting hormonal methods  hormones are used to regulate or stop ovulation and avert pregnancy.
• Injectable birth control
  Here progestin, Depo-Provera® (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate [DMPA]), is injected in the woman’s arm or buttocks every three months.
• Progestin-only pills (POPs)
  These pills are taken by a woman every day. These pills control ovulation or sperm function.
• Combined hormonal methods
  In this method, synthetic estrogen and progestin are used to thicken cervical mucus and inhibits ovulation. These drugs are administered through pills, skin patches, or vaginal rings.
• Combined oral contraceptives (COCs, “the pill”)
  These are a combination of synthetic estrogen and progestin that have to be taken daily.
• Contraceptive patch
  This is a thin plastic patch that is stuck on the skin of the lower abdomen, outer arm, buttocks and releases hormone into the bloodstream. These patches are changed every week for three weeks.

2. Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

• Intrauterine methods
  The intrauterine method is commonly used. Here small contraceptive devices are inserted into the uterus.
• Hormonal IUD or IUS
  In this method, progestin hormone (levonorgestrel) is released into the uterus. Levonorgestrel thickens the cervical mucus, restrains the sperm from reaching the egg, and prevents the release of eggs.
• Copper IUD
  In this method, a small and T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus to avert the sperm from reaching and fertilizing the eggs. It also prevents the eggs from getting attached in the womb. If, by chance, fertilization occurs, the device prevents egg implantation in the uterus lining.
• Implants
  Implants are also included in different birth control types. They are basically implantable matchstick-sized rods made of plastic that are quite flexible. The rod is inserted in a woman’s upper arm surgically and releases progestin. It can be kept for five years.

3 . Barrier methods
Barrier methods are another set of different birth control types.

• Male condoms
  These are thin disposable sheaths made of latex or polyurethane worn over the penis. They collect sperms and prevent them from entering the female body. Male condoms also prevent STDs.
• Female condoms
  These are thin and soft plastic disposable pouches that are partially inserted into the vagina before intercourse to restrain sperm from entering the uterus.

These different birth control types have been proven effective and help people plan a family.