<unk>  is a regimen of one or more actions, devices, or medications followed in order to deliberately prevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy or childbirth. Contraception may refer specifically to mechanisms which are intended to reduce the likelihood of the fertilisation of an ovum by a spermatozoon.
The history of<unk>  began with the discovery of the connection between coitus and pregnancy. The oldest forms of<unk>  included coitus interruptus, pessaries, and the ingestion of herbs that were believed to be contraceptive or abortifacient. The earliest record of<unk>  use is instructions on creating a contraceptive pessary from Ancient Egypt.
Different methods of<unk>  have varying characteristics. Condoms, for example, are the only method that provides significant protection from sexually transmitted diseases.
Because of the sexual and ethical nature of the subject, cultural and religions attitudes on<unk>  vary significantly.
Birth control
Prenatal care
Prenatal diagnosis
Pregnancy test
Fetal screening
Labor and Delivery
Family planning
Fetal surgery