Birth control is the use of a range of methods to prevent conception or pregnancy. Some ways are more effective than others. Options are available for both women and men. You may want to use a particular type of birth control depending on your health, ease of use, reliability, and your future desire to have children.

• IUD is one of the most  common methods of birth control.  Shaped like a “T,” an intrauterine device is a small and flexible instrument. A healthcare provider fits it inside the uterus to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg.
• A contraceptive implant is a matchstick-sized plastic instrument that goes under the skin of a women’s upper arm. This device releases a hormone called progestin that thickens the cervical mucus and thins the lining of the uterus. Thus, it keeps the sperm from reaching an egg.
• In a birth control shot, the doctor injects progestin to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. Each shot lasts for about three months. Timely injections of this decrease the risk of pregnancy. 
• A contraceptive vaginal ring is a small and flexible plastic ring that contains progestin and estrogen hormones. When this ring is inserted in the vagina, the hormones release into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.
• Birth control pills are daily medications for women. The pills contain two hormones, estrogen, and progestin that prevent pregnancy by keeping the ovaries from releasing eggs.
• Sometimes women use birth control patches, a flat plastic square about two inches. The patch delivers estrogen and progestin to prevent conception. It is usually worn like an adhesive bandage on the lower abdomen, back, or upper outer arm.
• Diaphragm and cervical caps are soft silicone cups inserted into the vagina with a gel or spermicide. When these cups are fitted over the cervix, it prevents sperm from entering the uterus. A diaphragm and cervical cap can be inserted consecutively up to two and 42 hours before intercourse.
• One of the most affordable and available methods of birth control is a male condom. It is a thin tube made of latex and other materials. When placed over the penis during sex, it keeps sperm from entering into the vagina.
• Internal condoms are alternative to male condoms. An internal condom goes inside the vagina to create a barrier that prevents sperm from reaching an egg.
• A permanent method of birth control is vasectomy. It is a surgical procedure for males. In this method, the small sperm-carrying tubes in the scrotum are blocked or cut off. Thus, there is no chance of conception as no sperm are released during ejaculation. 

A doctor can help you chose the best plan among these common methods of birth control. It should be understood that even the most effective measures can fail. Only a correct and consistent usage of birth control lowers the chances of conception.