Barrier Contraceptive Methods - Econdoms guide
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Barrier Contraceptive Methods |
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What are Barrier Methods?
Barrier methods prevent sperm from reaching the uterus/fallopian tubes where there may be an egg waiting to be fertilized. There are a variety of barrier methods to choose from:
/The Male Condom/
The male condom is a latex sheath that is placed over the male partner's erect penis before intercourse. The condom is designed for one-time use. It prevents sperm from entering the vagina when the male partner ejaculates. Condoms are available over-the-counter at all pharmacies.
How effective is it?
To be most effective, condoms should be used with a spermicide. Used correctly, the typical failure rate of latex condoms is about 3%. However, application problems and breakage can occur with condoms. When used incorrectly, the failure rate for condom use rises to 12%. Latex condoms also protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV.
Are there any side effects?
Yes. Some people can develop allergies to latex condoms, however, non-latex condoms are available at pharmacies.
/The Female Condom/
The female condom consists of a lubricated polyurethane sheath shaped somewhat like the male condom. The closed end has a flexible ring that you insert into the vagina with the open end left on the outside. The female condom prevents semen from getting into the vagina. It is available over the counter at pharmacies.
How effective is it?
The female condom like the male condom is intended for one time use only. Used perfectly and consistently it has a failure rate of 5%. This means that out of 100 women using the female condom correctly for one year, 5 will become pregnant. The female condom also protects against STDs and HIV.
Are there side effects?
No, although some people may experience insertion difficulties.
/The Diaphragm/
The diaphragm is a dome-shaped rubber disk that you insert into the vagina before having intercourse. The diaphragm:
- must be fitted by a health professional, but of course not every time you use it!
- is available by prescription only
- must be left in place for at least six hours but not longer than 24 hours after intercourse
How effective is it?
When used with a spermicide, the diaphragm does double duty - it prevents sperm from reaching the uterus while the spermicide cream or gel applied to the diaphragm before insertion kills the sperm. Used properly, (that is the diaphragm is fitted properly and use it every time you have sex) the failure rate for the diaphragm is about 4-8% during the first year of use.
Are there side effects?
Sometimes sensitivity to the spermicides or allergies to the latex in the diaphragm may occur. The diaphragm may also increase the risk of urinary tract infections. In addition, toxic shock syndrome may occur if the diaphragm is left in place for more than 24 hours.
/Cervical Cap/
The cervical cap is a soft rubber cup with a round rim that fits snugly around the cervix. It is smaller than a diaphragm and uses suction to stay in place. Like the diaphragm, the cap must also be fitted by a health professional (not every time you use it) and used with a spermicide. The cervical cap prevents sperm from entering the uterus. It is inserted into the vagina, anytime before intercourse
How effective is it?
In studies, 10-13 women out of 100 who use the cap for one year will become pregnant. The pregnancy rate rises for women who have already had children. The use of spermicide is absolutely necessary in order to derive the full contraceptive benefit of the cap.
Are there side effects?
Sensitivity or allergy to the rubber or to the spermicide can occur. You should also have a regular Pap smear to check for any inflammation around the cervix.
/The Sponge/
A disposable, disc-shaped polyurethane foam device which covers the cervix, the sponge is designed to absorb and trap sperm. The sponge contains spermicide to kill sperm. It has two slots for easy insertion and removal and is:
- available without a prescription
- comes with spermicide
- provides continuous protection for 12 hours
How effective is it?
The typical failure rate for the sponge is around 11%. That number rises in women who have already given birth. When used with a male condom, however, the failure rate for the sponge method is only 2%.
Are there side effects?
Occasionally, allergy to the foam in the sponge, or to the spermicides, can occur.
/The Lea Contraceptive/
A soft pliable cup shaped bowl with a loop for easy insertion and removal, the Lea Contraceptive prevents sperm from entering the cervix. Like the diaphragm and the cap, the Lea contraceptive is inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It is available without a prescription from your pharmacist.
How effective is it?
The Lea contraceptive must be used with a spermicide and left in place for 8-hours to be effective. When used with a spermicide the failure rate for the Lea contraceptive is 8.7%, higher if spermicide is not used.
Are there side effects?
Allergies to silicone or to spermicides can occur.
Contraception.Net
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