Definitions

birth control

[burth kuhn-trohl] / ˈbɜrθ kənˌtroʊl /

NOUN

prevention of conception

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abstinence condom contraceptive diaphragm family planning pill vasectomy

WEAK

IUD birth prevention conception prevention contraception method of preventing pregnancy planned parenthood rhythm method rubber tied tubes

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Around a decade later, when Danovich went to a clinic for another IUD—a small, T-shaped birth control device that’s inserted past the cervix into the uterus—she asked the doctor for pain medication.

From Slate • Jun. 7, 2026

Notably, as reported by NBC News, Hilliard did not answer a question about whether the government would allow the use of Title X funds for hormonal birth control in 2027.

From Salon • Apr. 28, 2026

Later, the women share memories on the 1960s sociopolitical issues of birth control, homosexuality and the Vietnam War.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

Reliable birth control allowed women to plan careers with a predictability long afforded to men.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

They also had less access to birth control.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt