Which hormonal contraceptive method can be taken orally and is intended to prevent ovulation?

The birth control pill is designed to be taken orally and primarily works by preventing ovulation, thereby reducing the likelihood of pregnancy. It contains synthetic forms of hormones, typically estrogen and progestin, which regulate the menstrual cycle and inhibit the release of eggs from the ovaries. In doing so, the birth control pill not only prevents ovulation but also thickens the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and alters the endometrial lining to reduce the chances of implantation should fertilization occur.

In contrast, a condom provides a barrier method of contraception and does not rely on hormonal intervention. The patch is another hormonal contraceptive option, but it is applied to the skin rather than taken orally. An IUD (intrauterine device) is a long-term contraceptive that is inserted into the uterus and can be hormonal or non-hormonal, but it is not an oral method and works in a different manner than pills. Therefore, the birth control pill stands out as the oral contraceptive specifically intended to prevent ovulation.