Barrier methods of contraception

Barrier methods of contraception

Barrier methods of contraception

Barriers are considered to be the oldest form of contraceptives. It prevents the passage of body fluids from a person to another. Aside from being a contraceptive, it is also used to prevent the transmission of STDs including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Unlike other methods of birth control, barriers are used only when having sexual intercourse. It has different uses, failure rate and effectiveness.

Condoms are made of latex (rubber), polyurethane (plastic), or sheep intestine. Condoms made of rubber and plastic help to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, while sheep intestine do not. There are two types of condoms: male and female.

The male condom is a thin sheath that is worn by a man over his erect penis. It is considered to be the most effective in preventing STDs. Some condoms are prelubricated. Water or KY jelly can be used as lubricants while oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly or baby oil should not be used because they can weaken the material. On the other hand, female condom (Femidon) can be inserted 8 hours before sexual intercourse. It is a tube of soft plastic that has a closed end. It is inserted deep into the woman’s vagina over the cervix. Condoms are only used once.

A spermicide is a substance that kills sperm. It is available in different forms like foam, cream, suppositories, jelly and film. Most spermicides have an active ingredient called nanoxynol-9. Using an applicator, it is filled with spermicide and inserted into the vagina right before the intercourse. This can be used with other barrier method except sponge.

The vaginal contraceptive sponge is a doughnut-shaped device made of soft foam that contains spermicide. It is more effective in women who did not have a normal delivery. It is used to block the cervix so that sperms can’t pass and is removed six hours after intercourse.

Diaphragm is a round, dome-shaped device made of rubber that is inserted in the vagina to cover the cervix. It is available only by prescription and must be sized by a health care professional to achieve a proper fit. Prior to insertion, spermicide must be applied as an extra precaution. It should be left in place for 6 hours and not longer than 24 hours because of the risk of toxic shock syndrome.

A cervical cap is also prescribed by a health care provider. The cervical cap is used with spermicide. It can be inserted ahead of time or just before the act of sexual intercourse. It has a strap that is used for removal.