Oral Contraceptives

• The birth control pill is a common method of family planning that women can use to regulate fertility. Depending on the type of pill you use, you may have a menstrual period once a month or every four months. Birth control pills contain the hormones progesterone and estrogen and prevent ovulation, or the release of an egg. The pill also thickens cervical mucus, making it hard for sperm to enter the uterus. The pill does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
  
  

Female Condoms

• Condoms for men have been around for a long time, but nowadays there are also female condoms. Avert.org states that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved female condoms in 1993. The female condom is a good last-minute alternative when dealing with a partner who doesn't have a condom or won't wear one. It is a polyurethane pouch with rings at the front and end-side. One side gets inserted into the vagina while the other stays just outside the entrance of the vagina. If used correctly, either the female or the male condom will protect you from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.
  
  

Intrauterine Devices

• Intrauterine devices, also known as IUD's, can prevent a woman from getting pregnant. The T-shaped device is inserted into the uterus by your doctor. It usually keeps the sperm from reaching the egg. According to the Planned Parenthood website, one out of 100 women will get pregnant while using an IUD. The device does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
  
  

The Morning-After Pill

• Emergency contraception in the form of the morning-after pill can be used if you had unprotected sex and you fear you could get pregnant. The morning-after pill should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse. The pill contains progesterone, estrogen or both. It works by either delaying ovulation, preventing ovulation or inhibiting implantation. Two commonly used morning-after pills are Preven and Plan B.