Birth control are techniques and methods use to prevent fertilisation or to interrupt pregnancy at various stages. Birth control techniques and methods include contraception (the prevention of fertilisation), contragestion (preventing the implantation of the blastocyst) and abortion (the removal or expulsion of a fetus or embryo from the uterus).

The techniques and methods frequently overlap and many birth control techniques and methods are not strictly contraceptive as fertilisation or conception may occure. Contraception include barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragm, and oral and injectable contraceptives. Contragestives, also known as post-coital birth control, include intrauterine devices and what is known as the morning after pill. (Source: Wikipedia)

Egyptian documents dating from 1500 B.C. list substances that stop pregnancy.