The second reason why contraception has gained importance is due to disease. As we will see at the end of this chapter,many serious diseases can be passed between people during sex. Some birth control methods are also important ways to reduce the transmission of certain diseases. Over time, various methods of birth control have been developed. Some methods are more effective than others. The most effective means of birth control is abstinence, that is, not having sexual intercourse. Abstaining from sexual intercourse prevents sperm from reaching an egg and also limits the spread of sexually transmitted diseases
