Contraception Introduction:

Contraceptive methods are what couples use to prevent a pregnancy. Some of these methods, like the male and female condoms, also provide very effective protection against most sexually transmitted infections. When the goal is to avoid a pregnancy, couples need to talk together about what method is best for both partners. Issues include access to the method, the cost of the method and whether it is covered by insurance, how it is used, and whether it involves introducing a chemical into the body rather than placing some kind of a barrier between the partners. The vast majority of birth control methods in the world today are designed for the female body to use. At the same time, however, male partners need to be active parts of discussions and decisions about contraception – and to be willing to use condoms for safer sex and pregnancy prevention.