Contraception allows for the prevention of pregnancy and for planning the timing of pregnancy. Modern methods of contraception include oral contraceptives (such as birth control pills), contraceptive vaginal rings, condoms, intrauterine (pronounced in-truh-YOO-ter-in) devices (also called IUDs), injectable and implantable products, and sterilization. The NICHD supports and conducts research on the development of new contraceptive methods, including male contraceptives, and to identify new strategies for improving the use of contraceptives.
For more information about this topic, select the
Condition Information, Research Information, Clinical Trials, or Resources and Publications link in the menu on the left.