Gone are the days of old when an old sheath was wrapped around a penis or the “pull and pray” method were the only choices we had. Today’s birth control options are vast, and offer something for everyone.
One of the most popular choices is the birth control pill, simply known as the Pill. The Pill is a hormone regulating medication that stops a woman from ovulating and also thickens the cervical mucus in order to make it difficult for sperm to pass. There are various kinds of Pills available and women should talk to their doctors about which ones might be right for them. Missed doses and certain medications can render the Pill ineffective.
Condoms are also a very widely used method of birth control and (unlike the Pill) can also provide protection from the many STDs and STIs out there. Used properly, they are very effective but not a guarantee against certain viruses like HPV. The female condom is also available and is seeing its usage grow. You can read more about the female condom here: https://www.empowher.com/sex-amp-relationships/content/why-arent-you-usi...
Birth control shots like Depo Provera might be a good choice for those who have problems remembering to take a daily pill. The shot is administered every three months and is quite effective in preventing pregnancy.
The Patch is another birth control method, administered to the arm or other part of the body where it’s not likely to be accidentally removed or damaged. It works just like the birth control pill (thickening the cervical mucus and preventing ovulation and used for 21 days) but the thin patch is placed in the body once a week, instead of a daily pill.
Intrauterine devices like Mirena or ParaGard are small devices that are inserted into a woman's reproductive area and are effective against pregnancy for up to 10 years, depending on which one you choose. They can be removed anytime, if a woman does not like them or wants to get pregnant. There is also a rod that can be inserted in the arm, and is effective for up to three years.
Foams, jellies, the Sponge (make sure he’s worthy!) and spermicidal inserts are also methods available but are best used in addition to something more effective, like a condom. They are not especially reliable on their own although--just up to 70 percent effectiveness.
The rhythm method is withdrawing the penis before ejaculation and then avoiding having sex in the 6-10 "danger" days around ovulation. While not as reliable as pills or rods, it has worked well for some and is medication free.
Surgical sterilization is also an option – otherwise known as getting your tubes tied. Abstention (not having any sexual contact) is another option and is the only one that has a 100 percent guarantee of not getting pregnant.
For more information on this topic, check out Which Birth Control Methods Are Most Effective.
Lastly, no birth control is effective if the person using it does not use it effectively. It must be used exactly as directed and when in doubt, a back-up method is needed. It's important to note that almost all birth control options carry risks and side effects (some serious) and are not suitable for all women.