Birth control and family planning Health Article

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Illustrations
Hormone-based contraceptives
The pill works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. The pill suppresses ovulation so that an egg is not released from the ovaries, and changes the cervical mucus, causing it to become thicker and making it more difficult for sperm to swim into the womb. The pill also does not allow the lining of the womb to develop enough to receive and nurture a fertilized egg. This method of birth control offers no protection against sexually-transmitted diseases. Update Date:
09/19/2006 Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

Before and after vasectomy
The cervical cap
The diaphragm

Intrauterine device
Side sectional view of female reproductive system
The male condom

Hormone-based contraceptives
Tubal ligation
Vaginal ring

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