There are several forms of contraception available to you and your partner. Before choosing a method you should consider how well the method works, how likely you are to use it, how safe it is, how much it is going to cost and how well it will fit into your lifestyle. Each method of birth control has benefits and side effects. In general, methods containing estrogen should not be started until at least six weeks after birth.  A woman who is interested in breastfeeding should make sure to establish a good milk supply by breastfeeding regularly and consistently before starting an estrogen containing method.  Progesterone only methods like Depo Provera and progesterone pills can be started immediately after birth and usually do not affect breast milk supply. Other forms of birth control include the intrauterine device or IUD and barrier methods like the diaphragm, cervical cap, condom (male and female), and spermicides. Finally there is sterilization for those women or couples who are positive they do not want any more children.  For women, there are several methods of blocking the tubes from the ovaries (fallopian tubes) to prevent pregnancy.  For men the procedure is called a vasectomy. The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia in the doctor’s office or a clinic. (See section on birth control more more details on each method listed.) Sterilization is meant to be a permanent form of birth control.  If there is a chance you may want to have a baby later, you should not choose this method. Not having vaginal intercourse is the only method 100% effective.