Barrier methods of contraception are methods which work by creating a physical barrier between sperm and egg cells thereby preventing fertilization.
Some reasons why barrier methods may be preferable are:
- they Have fewer side effects than hormonal contraceptives
- they Offer effective protection against certain sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and
- they Are available without a prescription (condom and spermicides)
Examples of barrier devices include the diaphragm, cervical cap, cervical shield, male condom, and female condom and spermicidal foam, sponges, and film. Unlike other methods of birth control, barrier methods are used only when you have sexual intercourse.
Male Condom
This is unarguably the most popular of the barrier methods of birth control most likely due to it’s ease of use and availability. You can buy condoms at most pharmacists, chemists and super markets. In some parts of the world condom dispensers can even be found in public restrooms but for us here in Nigeria that “mallam” hawking chewing gum on the street is sure to have condoms for sale as well.
The Male condom is a thin, flexible sheath meant to cover the penis to prevent semen from entering the partners body during intercourse. When used properly and consistently, condoms can also reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV.
Most condoms are made of latex, which some people may be allergic or sensitive to however, Polyurethane condoms are available as an alternative.
Accidents have been known to occur with condom use for example the condom may slip off during withdrawal.
Always make sure when using condoms that you and your partner see the condom and dispose of it properly. A condom left behind in the female genital tract is a potential source of infection and general discomfort.
Female condom
The female condom is a sheath made of nitrile and is prelubricated with a silicone-based lubricant. It is worn by the woman and prevents semen from entering the vagina. It has a soft, flexible ring at each end. The edges of the ring at the closed end of the sheath are squeezed together and then inserted as far as possible into the vagina. When released, the ring will open to hold the condom in place. The ring at the open end of the sheath remains outside the vulva, resting against the labia.
Male or female condoms are the only birth control methods that protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To help protect yourself and your partner from STI infection, be sure to use a condom every time you have sex.
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a soft dome-shaped cup made of latex rubber or silicone with a flexible rim. Before intercourse, the hollow of the dome is partially filled with a spermicidal cream or jelly and then the diaphragm is inserted deep into the vagina and positioned to fit directly over the cervix. It must be left in place for six to eight hours after sexual intercourse, before removal. If the woman has sex more than once during this time, an additional dose of spermicide should be inserted into the vagina.
Spermicide
Spermicides are chemical substances that destroy sperm. They are available in a variety of forms including gel, foam, cream, film, suppository, and tablet.
Using a spermicide with a barrier method gives you the best possible barrier method protection. The spermicide kills most of the sperm that enter the vagina and The barrier device then blocks any remaining sperm from passing through the cervix to fertilize an egg.
Effectiveness is reduced if one does not wait long enough for the spermicide to disperse before having intercourse, if intercourse is delayed for more than one hour after administration, or if a repeat dose is not applied before each additional act of intercourse.
A small percent of people may have an adverse reaction to Nonoxynol-9, which may cause an irritation or a burning sensation.
Contraceptive sponge
It is made of polyurethane and is 6 cm in diameter and 1.5 cm thick. It is impregnated with nonoxynol-9 spermicide. It is fitted into the vagina prior to sexual intercourse and works by occluding the cervix, releasing spermicide, and absorbing semen. The sponge may be inserted up to 24 hours before sex and removed any time after six hours.
Failure rates for barrier methods are higher than for most other methods of birth control and efficacy depends largely on proper use therefore it is important to follow instructions carefully and be sure to use emergency contraception as soon as possible in cases of suspected failure.
