Artificial contraception, also known as birth control, refers to medications or devices that are used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control methods have been used since ancient times but safe and effective methods only became widely available in the 20th century. There are different types of artificial contraception including hormonal methods, barrier methods, intrauterine devices, and behavioral methods. Hormonal birth control works by inhibiting ovulation and fertilization while barrier methods prevent sperm from entering the uterus. [/SUMMARY]