There is ongoing research around the world to find new forms of contraception that will be more effective, easier to use and less costly.
Initiatives to reduce unwanted pregnancies include male hormonal contraceptives and temporary sterilisation.
Every year, there are innovative improvements brought to existing methods of contraception.
One recent development that is slowly gaining popularity is baggy condoms.
A new, loose-fitting male condom has shown similar rates of breakage and slippage as regular condoms, but study participants have reported that this new type of condom creates more friction between partners, feeling more natural during sex and making sex more enjoyable than with regular condoms.
A great deal of research is dedicated to find more methods to prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
Two methods that are currently receiving a great deal of attention are microbicides and male circumcision.