Contraceptive

Contraceptives, also known as birth control, are methods and devices used to prevent pregnancy. These methods can be temporary, such as condoms, or long-term, such as intrauterine devices (IUDs). Contraceptives work by preventing the sperm from fertilizing an egg. Hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill and the patch, work by preventing ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovaries. Other methods, such as the diaphragm and the cervical cap, help to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Contraceptives also help to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).