Birth control works in several different ways and there are numerous options available:

• Hormonal contraception, including the pill, vaginal ring, and Depo-Provera shot

• Barrier methods, including condoms and diaphragms

• Natural methods, including the rhythm method and pulling out

• Long-acting contraception, including intrauterine devices (IUDs) and the Nexplanon® implant

• Phexxi vaginal gel

• Permanent contraception, including tubal ligation

• Emergency contraception, including Plan B

Condoms are the only type of birth control that help prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Certain hormonal birth control can help alleviate heavy periods and other gynecological problems.