The main reason for a person to use contraception is to prevent a pregnancy. 

A heterosexual couple may use contraception (family planning) if they are sexually active and either:

• Do not want children yet
• Do not want children at all
• Want to leave space between births
• Do not want more children

Any person or couple that is sexually active and wants to avoid sexually transmitted infections may decide to use condoms.

Other factors that lead people to use contraception include:

• Greater enjoyment of sex because they are less worried about pregnancy and/or STIs
• Economic considerations – contraception is usually more affordable than providing for a child
• A smaller number of children may benefit from a better quality of life (more resources and attention for each child)
• A person may also wish to pursue personal goals before having a child, for example studying