An unplanned pregnancy can endanger the health and even life of both the baby and the woman, so people with an active sex life should always use contraception to prevent it. Plus, certain types of contraception can also prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs).

The different birth control types and methods available today make this easy, but it’s also important to understand which one is suitable. Here are a few effective methods:

Contraceptive sponge
The contraceptive sponge is a popular choice among the different birth control types, mainly because it is better than both the male and female condoms in terms of accuracy. A contraceptive sponge is a round plastic sponge filled with spermicide, and it fits into the vagina and kills the sperms to prevent pregnancy. It is quite effective and also easily available, and the best part is that it can be left for various acts of intercourse for as long as 24 hours.

Cervical cap
A cervical cap is considered to be about 80% effective for preventing conception, and it is a soft and flexible covering that fits right over the cervix of a woman. As such, it stops sperms from entering the uterus, but it must be fit with a spermicide before use. A cervical cap is free from any side-effects and can be left in place for 48 hours. It is also easily available in sexual health clinics.

Diaphragm
Among the different birth control types, a diaphragm is quite popular because of its high effectiveness. It is also readily available and comes in the form of a soft, flexible disc that blocks the cervix. That said, women should speak to their doctor if they find that the diaphragm is causing an allergic reaction or urinary tract infection.

Implant
Implantation is a process and is among the different highly effective birth control types. An implant is a tiny plastic rod that is placed under the woman’s skin and releases the hormone progestin, which affects the process of ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus as a means of blocking the sperms from reaching the egg. It is highly effective but can cause minor side-effects like fatigue and breast tenderness.

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)
IUDs are small T-shaped instruments placed in the uterus and can be left in place for several years. The copper IUD is very effective because it prevents even a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Women can get an IUD removed if they wish to conceive, but otherwise, it can stay for 10 years without posing any threat to their health.

The choice among these different birth control types depends upon one’s preferences. An individual can use just one method or opt for a combination of multiple contraceptives based on their health and other requirements.