This document provides information about various contraceptive methods. It discusses the need for contraception to avoid unwanted pregnancies and regulate timing and spacing of pregnancies. It describes ideal characteristics of contraceptives and categorizes common methods as either spacing methods (reversible) or terminal methods (permanent). The main spacing methods discussed are barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms, spermicides), IUDs, hormonal methods, and emergency contraception. Terminal methods discussed are male and female sterilization. Unmet need for contraception in India and initiatives by the Indian government to increase access and awareness of contraceptive options are also summarized.