While most modern means of contraception are effective, the true tests of a method's value are whether it is right for a specific user and whether consistent and correct use is possible within the context of his or her life.
FHI's contraceptive research and development broadens the range of safe, effective, and affordable contraceptive methods for women and men, and our programs and information dissemination efforts help ensure that family planning services are based on sound scientific evidence.
- Contraception and HIV: Of all the contraceptives currently available, only abstinence and male and female condoms have been shown to protect against HIV.
- Diaphragm: Although only somewhat effective the way most women use them, diaphragms are a method that women control and can use when needed.
- Female Condoms: What are female condoms and how effective are they?
- Emergency Contraception: Emergency contraception pills prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.
- Family Planning Counseling: Counseling is a key component of family planning services and client satisfaction. Find out why.
- Female Sterilization: Because of the permanency of sterilization, counseling by health care providers is criticial. Who is a good candidate for sterilization?
- Injectables: Injectable contraceptives are an effective and popular method in many countries. What are their advantages over other forms of contraception?
- Intrauterine Devices: IUDs provide effective, cost-efficient, long-term, yet reversible pregnancy protection. Who can use IUDs? Read more.
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Lactational Amenorrhea Method: The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is the use of breastfeeding as a temporary family planning method. Yet many women know someone who became pregnant when breastfeeding. Is breastfeeding a viable contraceptive?
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Male Condoms: Studies have shown that consistent and correct use of condoms is by far the most important factor in their effectiveness in preventing both pregnancy and disease.
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Male Sterilization: Vasectomies are highly effective and intended to be permanent. What are the procedure's other benefits?
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Natural methods: Natural methods of family planning include periodic abstinence, withdrawal, and the use of the lactational amenorrhea method.
- Oral Contraceptives: More than 80 million women worldwide take "the pill" to prevent pregnancy. What should you do if you miss a pill? What are the differences between combined oral contraceptives and the progestin-only pills?
- Spermicides: Spermicides are available as foam, cream, jelly, film, suppositories or tablets, but do they protect against STIs?
For more information on family planning and reproductive health, see FHI's Contraceptive Technology and Reproductive Health Series modules.
