Definition of Artificial Family Planning

Couples who want to prevent pregnancy have many options when choosing when and how to plan their families. There are a large number of reliable artificial family planning methods that will fit nearly any couple's lifestyle.

Definition

Artificial family planning is a means of preventing pregnancy that involves some kind of device or medication. It does not include periodic abstinence or the withdrawal method.

History

There are records of artificial contraception being used as early as 3000 B.C. In more recent history, the first rubber condom was developed in 1838.

Types: Nonhormonal Contraceptives

Types of nonhormonal birth control include condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, spermicidal gels, foams and inserts, copper IUDs, and sponges. While they carry fewer health risks than hormonal birth controls, they often have a higher failure rate.

Types of Hormonal Contraceptives

Birth control pills, the Depo Provera injection, the NuvaRing, the Mirena IUD, the Implanon arm implant, the Ortho Evra patch and emergency contraception or the "morning after" pill can be used. Hormonal birth controls often carry more serious health risks than nonhormonal methods.

Other Forms of Contraceptives

Complete abstinence, and male and female sterilization are other forms of birth control. These methods are more subjective when categorizing as "natural" or "artificial."

References

• Planned Parenthood
• Our Bodies, Ourselves