Contraception can be defined as any means to prevent pregnancy. 

There are both temporary and permanent methods of contraception.

• Temporary methods are usually divided between:
• abstinence
• hormonal methods
• barrier methods that prevent sperm from moving up the upper female genital tract
• devices placed into the womb 
• 'natural' methods

Currently, the only methods of contraception that also protect against HIV transmission are male and female condoms.