Family planning covers the counseling and methods that help individuals and couples decide if, when, and how many children to have. Options include:

Hormonal methods
 Birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, and injections that prevent ovulation.

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) and hormonal implants, which offer years of highly effective, reversible protection.

Barrier methods
Condoms and diaphragms, which also help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Permanent methods
Tubal ligation for women or vasectomy for men, for those certain they do not want future pregnancies.

Natural and fertility-awareness methods
Tracking the menstrual cycle to identify fertile and infertile days.

Emergency contraception
Used after unprotected intercourse to prevent an unintended pregnancy.

Choosing a method depends on each person’s health, lifestyle, and future family goals, and is best discussed individually with a gynecologist.