As the ideal contraceptive has not been found after a quarter century of global contraception research, this is an attempt to assess the advantages and drawbacks of the so-called "safe" methods of contraception currently in use. The most persuasive arguments in favour of oral contraceptives which other reversible methods cannot claim are their unsurpassed safety as well as the simplicity of their application. The disadvantage of potential damages through the perennial intake of hormones can be minimized with the low dosages of modern compounds. Recommendations are made concerning the controlled use of the various kinds of ovulation-inhibitors. Likewise, the use of ovulation-inhibitors with adolescents, at the end of reproductive age, and with women afflicted with diabetes mellitus are discussed. Advantages and drawbacks of contraception through the exclusive use of progestagen are briefly stated. Despite good applicability in single cases, intrauterine contraception should rather be viewed as a second choice only. Yet the standard problems, such as menstrual disturbances, increased tendency toward inflammations and individual incompatibility remain unsolved. Moreover, the rate of failure of 3% is ten times as high as with the ovulation-inhibitors. In their instructions some producers recommend too short a period of placement of the device in the uterus. Most IUD's can stay in place for a longer period of time. Repeated references to the possible complications of the use of IUD's with nulliparous women are made. As an emergency method to prevent a pregnancy after intercourse without contraceptives a hormonal method as well as the post-coital insertion of an IUD are discussed. After completed family planning the definitive sterilization presents itself as the ideal method of contraception, either through tubal sterilization in case of the woman, or vasectomy in case of the man. Rates of complications, failure rates, and chances of reversibility of both methods are specified.