Contraception methods are used by several couples to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Along with lowering the risk of pregnancy, the most effective forms of contraception can be used to avoid several other risks that arise as a result of an unplanned pregnancy, threatening the life of both the to-be mother and the baby.

Here, we have listed the most effective forms of contraception one can choose from:

• Oral contraceptives
  One of the most popular hormonal contraceptive methods, oral contraceptives have hormones that work toward controlling a woman’s menstrual cycle. This helps reduce the chances of pregnancy. Certain oral contraceptives are made of a mixture of progesterone and estrogen, while some have only progesterone. This is one of the most effective forms of contraception, but they have to be used regularly to be effective. Also, oral contraceptives consisting of only progesterone take a while to work.
• Vaginal ring
  Another hormonal contraceptive method, a vaginal ring is a small ring that is placed in the vagina for 21 days before it is removed. A new ring is put inside the vagina after a week. A vaginal ring constitutes two hormones, namely progesterone and estrogen, that are released and spread into the bloodstream to prevent the risk of unwanted pregnancy.
• Contraceptive patch
  Contraceptive patches have been widely regarded as one of the most effective forms of contraception. This patch is put on the skin and is replaced every week. One must ensure a proper 7-day gap between every change to ensure the effectiveness of the contraceptive method. For example, if one replaces it on a particular Wednesday, they must change it again on the next Wednesday, and so on. It contains progesterone and estrogen, which gradually make their way through the pores of the skin. If used in the right way, this contraceptive proves to be 99.7% effective.
• Diaphragm
  It is referred to as a barrier method whose main function is to forbid the sperm from extending itself to the cervix in the uterus. This helps in avoiding the fertilization of the ovule, which can lead to conception. It must be inserted into the vagina and positioned against the cervix, and it is advisable to use the diaphragm with a spermicide that helps destroy the sperm. Having said that, using spermicide as an isolated device may not serve any purpose as it is not very effective.
• Cervical cap
  Like the diaphragm, a cervical cap is also a barrier method that serves a similar function. It is placed inside the vagina, opposite the cervix, and it is imperative to use it along with a spermicide. The cervical cap is available in different sizes, and one can try out different caps to find one that fits well near the cervix.