Health Conditions

Abstinence (not having sexual intercourse)

Cervical Cap (a small, cup-shaped latex device that is fitted into the entrance of the vagina to block the passage of sperm)

Condom, Female (a thin, stretchy pouch that fits inside the vagina and keeps sperm from entering the uterus)

Condom, Male (a thin, but strong covering that fits over the penis to prevent sperm from entering the vagina)

Copper IUD (a small T-shaped device wrapped in a copper wire that is inserted into the uterus and may be effective for up to 10 years depending on the device).

Diaphragm (a flexible, rubber device that is held against the opening of the uterus by a spring to prevent sperm from getting into the uterus)

Natural methods (such as measuring body temperature, tracking menstrual cycles on the calendar, or determining the thickness of cervical mucus)

Spermicide (vaginally-inserted chemicals that inactivate sperm - often used in combination with other forms of contraception such as cervical caps, condoms, diaphragms, sponges, and withdrawal)

Sponge (a thick, soft cushion of polyurethane foam that is inserted into the vagina to block the passage of sperm into the uterus)

Tubal ligation or female sterilization (commonly known as ?tied tubes? - a permanent surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut or blocked so that eggs cannot enter the fallopian tubes and sperm cannot reach the eggs to fertilize them)

Vasectomy or male sterilization (a surgical procedure in which the vas deferens, which are the tubes through which sperm travel, are cut or blocked, so that sperm cannot leave the male body)

Withdrawal (also called ?coitus interruptus? or ?pulling out? ? taking the penis out of the vagina before sperm is released)

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.