Birth Control

Birth control, also known as contraception, is designed to prevent pregnancy. Birth control methods can be broadly classified into barrier methods, methods that prevent ovulation such as the birth control pill, and methods that allow fertilization of the egg but prevent implantation of the fertilized egg inside the uterus. A range of devices and treatments are available for both men and women that can help prevent pregnancy. Some methods are more reliable than others. How well a method work often depends on how carefully it is used. The contraceptive pill, for example, used correctly, is over 99 percent effective. However, because people make mistakes, as many as 9 women each year will become pregnant while using it.