Aside from the obvious reason of preventing pregnancy, birth control measures are recommended by doctors for teenage girls with irregular or heavy menstrual periods, severe menstrual cramps, hormonal acne, or mood-related disorders like Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) that accompany premenstrual syndrome PMS. Different types of birth control can be prescribed to cater to different needs. For purely contraceptive needs, the following methods of temporary contraception prove to be most effective.

• Progestin-releasing implant
  An implant is a small plastic rod that releases a specific amount of progestin. It is about the size of an ordinary matchstick and is placed under your skin, generally in the upper arm area. This hormone is effective in inhibiting the release of an ovum (egg cell) from the ovary. If an egg is released, progestin also does the job of thickening the mucus surrounding the cervix, making it difficult for the sperm to reach the ovum.
• Intrauterine Device (IUD)
  An intrauterine device is a tiny T-shaped device that is placed in the uterus by a doctor. The procedure is very simple and takes about 15-20 minutes. There are two types of IUDs – hormonal and medicinal. Hormonal IUDs secrete progestin when placed inside the body, and the effects last for about 3-5 years. A medicinal IUD includes devices like copper-Ts, in which a copper device is inserted in the uterus in a similar fashion, and its effects last for up to 10 years. It is important to note that both these devices can be safely used while breastfeeding.
• The birth control shot
  This is also one of the more popular forms of birth control used by women. The injection is administered in a form of progestin hormone and must be administered by a doctor every 90 days. The most important thing to remember when considering this method is that the shot must be administered at the exact time that it has been prescribed. Any delay in taking the shot could lead to unwanted pregnancy.
• Birth control patch
  Resembling the function of a nicotine patch, a birth control patch acts in a similar manner by releasing estrogen and progestin into the skin that is then promptly absorbed. The main aspect of maintaining a birth control patch is the proper placement of the patch and ensuring that it is changed every week for three weeks. The patch can be removed on the week of the menstrual cycle. Those who use this method often report no side-effects.
• The Pill
  Also known as the mini-pill, the hormonal pill is one of the most popular ways of birth control used by women. Oral contraceptive pills are of several kinds and may contain only progestin, or a combination of both estrogen and progestin. There are also certain pills that reduce the number of periods you have throughout the year, which is recommended for women with severe PMS and PMDD symptoms and discomfort.