The methods that are used to prevent women and young girls from becoming pregnant are called birth control methods. These methods use contraceptives like abstinence from sex, medication or the use of various items by women or men. However, the only method that provides 100% assurance that pregnancy will not occur, is abstinence. If women and young girls are not participating in sexual activities, there is no way they can get pregnant.

On the other hand, there are a wide variety of contraceptive birth control methods that are available apart from abstinence. All it requires is a little research on your part to find which method will best suit you and your partner.

A very popular and readily available method of birth control is the use of condoms. They not only have the ability to prevent pregnancy, but they can also protect against sexually transmitted infections. They have proven to be effective, safe and convenient, and can be used in the case of vaginal, anal, or oral sex. In addition, they are very affordable. In some locations, they are referred to as peter’s jacket, rubbers and safes. They are also available in different textures, colors, sizes, lubed or not lubed.

Condoms are placed over the penis to collect the semen from a man when he ejaculates, thus preventing entry of the sperm into the vagina and by extension pregnancy. They also prevent the entry of ejaculate fluids into the vagina, mouth and anus and hence are able to protect against sexually transmitted infections. If condoms are not compromised by air, light or temperature and are used correctly then they can be very effective. It is highly recommended that the condom package is not opened with a sharp object or your teeth. Also do not keep condoms in your wallet, back pocket or car for a long time. Instead keep them unopened in their original package until you are ready to use them. For increased safety, you should consider using a spermicidal with the condom.

The pill is another form of contraceptive. These pills are taken by women daily in order to prevent pregnancy. These pill contain hormones which prevents the ovary of a woman form releasing eggs, and allow the thickening of the cervical mucus, so as to block the sperm from getting to the egg. As in the case of most contraceptives, the pill can be very effective if it is used regularly and consistently as instructed by the manufacturer. It is however important to note that there are some supplements and medication that can reduce the effectiveness of the pill, such as the antibiotic rifampin, some of the oral medications for a yeast infection, some anti seizures, St. John’s Wart and some HIV medication. If you are considering using the pill but are taking this medication, you should discuss this with your doctor before taking the pill.

For most women using the pill is safe, however there are side effects. If you have problems with your blood clotting you should take the progestin only pill. If you have trouble with migraine headaches with aura, blood clots, vein inflammation, have suffered a stroke, heart attack, and angina, the combination pill is not recommended for you. However the pill does have its advantages. It is very convenient and easy to use; it will make your menstrual periods lighter, reduce you menstrual cramps, and help in protecting you from pelvic inflammatory disease which can cause infertility.