It is estimated by the American Academy of Pediatrics that about 3 million sexually active couple in the United States do not use any form of birth control. This results in about 47% of all cases of unplanned pregnancies. However there are different birth control  options when it comes to preventing pregnancy .

Ways to prevent pregnancy

Over the counter contraception :  This includes the following :

• male condom – This is  inexpensive and widely available. It also protects against sexually transmitted disease
• female condom – This is also inexpensive but not as effective as a male condom. However it is a good choice if the male refuses to wear a condom
• contraceptive sponge – This is effective for females who have not experienced child birth not not so effective if you’ve previously given birth
• spermicides – These come in different forms such a s gels, creams and suppositories.  This is the lest effective of the over the counter contraceptives . However they are easy to combine with other contraceptive to increase the effectiveness

Prescription contraceptives : These are some of the most effective ways of preventing pregnancy and includes the following :

• oral contraceptives :  This is also known as birth control pills and come in different types and formulas.
• birth control patch
• birth control shots
• diaphragm
• cervical caps
• intra – uterine device IUD
• contraceptives vaginal ring

Each has its advantages and disadvantages so talk to your doctor  to find out which is best for you.

Natural method : This is when you monitor your cycle and avoid sexual intercourse during your fertile period. With this method , you have to know the signs of ovulation and avoid sex during this period.

Others also use the withdrawal method  which is when the  man pulls his penis out of the vagina before ejaculation.  The natural methods are less effective and require commitment and planning. If you do not want to use  medication or conceptive devices, this is the right choice for you.

Sterilization : Sterilization is a good choice for you if you are sure you never want to get pregnant. Tubal ligation ia a medical procedure that  closes the woman’s fallopian tubes and is about 99% effective. Vasectomies also renders a man infertile by closing the sperm duct so that sperms are unable to pass through.