There are methods such as the diaphragm and the sponge which act as "barriers" they are 75% to 95% effective depending on the method and usage.
Condoms are 85% to 98% effective depending on you always using them correctly.
Oral Contraceptives<3
Hormonal methods of birth control prevent ovulation.
The purpose of contraception - is to prevent unwanted pregnancies !
The barrier method
Barrier contraceptive is a condom, and chemical contraceptive is spermicide.
Oral contraceptives may make some existing cancers worse
"Contraceptive" and "birth control" are synonymous. All contraceptives are methods of birth control.
Women who take oral contraceptives should not smoke cigarettes. It is not recommended because with some contraceptives like Yaz smoking increases the chance of blood clots.
Condoms and foam are non-prescription methods. Dipahragms are by prescription. All of these methods are barrier methods.
There are two types of contraceptive - chemical and mechanical. Chemical would cover 'medical' items... such as the pill or a spermicide Mechanical covers devices... such as condoms, the cap, the coil. See related link for more info on the different types of contraceptives.
what are artificial contraceptives?
I think so. Most couples do in the majority of the world.