Hormonal pills also called as Oral contraceptive pills (OCP). It consists of a combination of the estrogen and progesterone hormone. It inhibits the formation of the egg (ovum) for as long as the pills are continued. These are the most reliable of the various contraceptives. The pills are to be taken daily. Now days, injections of long acting hormones (mainly of progesterone) are also available, which remain in the body for 60-80 days and exert the same effect as that of the pills. The advantage of the injections is that they have to be taken only once in three months. Also now an emergency pill is available that can be taken within 24-48 hours after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is also called as morning after pill. The side effects of hormonal contraceptives are temporary weight gain, sodium (salt) retention, white vaginal discharge, reduced bleeding during the monthly periods, etc. Also use of it long term can lead to increased risk of deep vein thrombosis and liver disease.

Intra uterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs) also popularly known as Copper T. They are useful in women who have already had one or more children. It involves the insertion of a metallic loop covered with very thin copper wire, into the uterus. The side effects are heavy bleeding during menses, vaginal infection and pain in lower abdomen. Whenever the contraceptive is not required, it can be simply removed.

Female condoms: The female condom has a flexible ring at each end - one secures behind the pubic bone to hold the condom in place, while the other ring stays outside the vagina. Thus it prevents the entry of the sperm into the uterus. They need to inserted just before intercourse. Similar to female condoms are diaphragms and cervical rings which are less effective.

Vaginal spermicides are tablets that are inserted into the vagina before intercourse. They make the sperms ineffective and are less protective when used alone. However when used with the female condom, protection rate is higher.