Contraception has come a long way over the years, providing people with several options to prevent pregnancy. From hormonal pills to intrauterine devices, there is no shortage of birth control methods available today.

However, advancements in technology and medicine have led to the introduction of new forms of contraception. In this article, we will explore some of the latest options available for those looking to prevent pregnancy.

1. Hormonal Patch

The hormonal patch is a thin, sticky patch that is applied to the skin of the lower abdomen, buttocks, outer arm, or upper torso. It releases hormones into the body that prevent ovulation, similar to hormonal birth control pills.

The patch is replaced once a week for three weeks, with the fourth week being a hormone-free week where a period occurs. This method is 91-99% effective, depending on proper usage.

2. Permanent Birth Control

Permanent birth control is an option for those who are certain they do not want to have children.

There are two types of permanent birth control: tubal ligation for women, which involves blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes, and vasectomy for men, which involves cutting or blocking the tubes that carry sperm. Both procedures are highly effective with a success rate of 99% or higher.

3. Natural Family Planning Apps

Natural family planning apps use technology to track a woman’s menstrual cycle, temperature, and other fertility signs to predict fertile and infertile days. By abstaining from sex during the fertile period, pregnancy can be prevented.

This method is 76-88% effective, depending on proper use. It is important to note that not all apps are approved by the FDA or tested for accuracy.

4. Male Birth Control Pill

The male birth control pill is a pill that contains hormones that prevent the production of sperm. It is still in the testing phase, but studies have shown that it is safe and effective.

The pill would be taken once a day, and it would take two to three months for the sperm count to decrease to the point of being unable to impregnate a woman. This method has the potential to provide men with a more active role in contraception, although it may face social and cultural barriers when it becomes available.

5. Non-Hormonal Intrauterine Devices

Non-hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) use copper to prevent pregnancy by disrupting the movement of sperm and fertilization. They can remain in the uterus for up to 10 years, depending on the type.

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Unlike hormonal methods, non-hormonal IUDs do not affect ovulation, making them a good alternative for those who cannot or do not want to use hormonal birth control. This method is over 99% effective, making it one of the most reliable forms of contraception available.

6. Vaginal Rings

Vaginal rings are a flexible, small ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. The ring is left in place for three weeks, and then removed for a hormone-free week to allow a period to occur.

This method is 91-99% effective, depending on proper usage.

7. Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It works by preventing or delaying ovulation or by preventing fertilization.

This method is not intended for regular use and should only be used in emergency situations. It is 75-89% effective.

8. Contraceptive Injection

The contraceptive injection is a shot that is given every three months to prevent pregnancy. It contains progestin, a hormone that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg.

This method is 94-99% effective, depending on proper usage.

9. Male Contraceptive Gel

Male contraceptive gel is a topical gel that is applied to the skin of the shoulders and upper arms. It contains synthetic hormones that prevent the production of sperm. The gel dries quickly and can be applied daily.

It takes a few months for the sperm count to decrease, making it an effective long-term method. The method is still under development, but promising results have been seen in early studies.

10. Fertility Awareness Method

The fertility awareness method involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle and identifying the fertile period. During the fertile period, couples can use a barrier method or abstain from sex to prevent pregnancy.

This method requires dedication and proper usage to be effective, but it can be used in combination with other methods for added protection. It is 76-88% effective, depending on proper use.