Birth control methods are used during intercourse to avoid pregnancy. Most drug stores carry a wide selection of birth control products that can be purchased by anyone, without a doctor's prescription. These products include condoms, spermicide (jelly, foam, or cream) and vaginal sponges.

You doctor can also prescribe a number of alternate birth control methods including birth control pills, progestin pills or “mini-pills” , progestin implants, or the Ortha Erva skin patch. You doctor can also fit you for a diaphram that acts as a barrier during intercourse and when used with a spermicidal gel can be very effective against pregnancy.

Finally, there are also two surgicgal forms of birth control that may also be considered. For men, it is possible for your doctor or eurologist to perform a vasectomy. This procedure can normally be performed in the doctors office. For women, it is possible to for a surgeon to peform a procedure in which the fallopian tubes are cut and sealed. This procedure normally requires a visit and stay in the hospital.