Despite availability of highly effective reversible contraceptive steroids, nearly half of all pregnancies in the United States are unplanned and about one-fourth are electively terminated. By age 45, 43% of women have had an elective abortion. It is, therefore, imperative that new rapidly reversible contraceptives be developed and introduced. Microbicides, by their dual action of preventing pregnancy and the spread of HIV/AIDS show much promise. The trend towards recent contraceptives includes improvements in efficacy and safety. New trends include a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system, an upcoming single progesterone releasing implant, a weekly transdermal estradiol and progestin patch, and a combination vaginal ring. The overall acceptance of these new methods has been high and hopefully their availability will decrease the incidence of unintended pregnancy and offer greater options to couples choosing family planning.