Contraceptives are medications, devices, and, in some cases, even surgery used to prevent unwanted pregnancy. An array of contraceptives are available for both men and women, but some methods can have severe after-effects. One should understand which method of contraception works best for them before opting to use it. Listed here are some of the most effective forms of contraception one can choose from:

• Oral contraceptives:  Oral contraceptive pills alter the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent pregnancy. Some pills contain both progesterone and estrogen, while others contain only estrogen. They have to be taken at the same time every day to be effective. Oral contraceptives are considered to be successful in 99.8% of cases and are one of the most effective forms of contraception.
• Vaginal ring : A vaginal ring is a tiny, elastic ring containing the hormones progesterone and estrogen. It is inserted into the vagina and left for 21 days. Over this period, the ring releases hormones into the bloodstream of the woman to prevent pregnancy. Post 21 days, a vaginal ring is removed, and a fresh one is inserted after some days. This method of contraception has a success rate of 99.6%.
• The contraceptive patch:  Another effective method used to prevent pregnancy is the contraceptive patch, which is put on the skin and changed every week on the same day for 3 weeks. The patch contains progesterone and estrogen, which are slowly released into the bloodstream through the skin. The patch is not used in the fourth week to allow menstruation, and it has a 99.7% success rate, making it one of the most effective forms of contraception.
• Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):  In this method of contraception, a device is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy for 5 years. This tiny device discharges progesterone that affects the uterus walls. Due to this, the cervical mucus becomes thick and the uterus wall shrinks, making conceiving almost impossible. This device prevents pregnancy up to 99.8% of the time and is listed among the most effective forms of contraception. An IUD can also be implanted in women who have never been pregnant.
• Condoms:  The male condom is the most common and widely used method of contraception and does not allow sperm to enter the vagina. Female condoms, on the other hand, have to be implanted in the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. A male condom is considered to be 97% successful, while a female condom is around 95% effective. This process does not have any side effects and also prevents the transmission of HIV.

These are some of the most effective forms of contraception, but all contraceptive methods are not suitable for everyone and every situation. So, one must consult a doctor before deciding on a contraceptive method to use.