Contraceptives help reduce the chance of pregnancy by creating either a hormonal or a physical barrier. It is important to note that most contraceptives do not protect against STIs. Hormonal contraceptives prevent the egg from being released, and include oral (birth control) pills, hormonal patches and injections, implants under the skin, and vaginal rings. Emergency contraceptives are hormonal pills that must be taken within 72 to 120 hours of having sex without using a contraceptive, to reduce the chance of pregnancy. Physical barriers prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and include male and female condoms, diaphragms, contraceptive sponges, and intra-uterine devices. For more information on contraceptives, you can visit the Planned Parenthood website. CHOICE advocates for universal access to the full range of contraceptives, regardless of age, marital status etc., as an important part of respecting and protecting young people’s sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).