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Barrier Contraceptives (Birth Control) |
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Note: Information provided on this page is for reference only, please seek medical assistance when in doubt
Term Barrier in birth control refers to various protective devices use to prevent unwanted
pregnancy. Barrier contraceptives are devices that attempt to prevent pregnancy by physically
preventing sperm from entering the uterus. Most common barrier devices are male condoms, female
condoms, cervical caps, diaphragms, and contraceptive sponges with spermicide.
Protection by use of barrier devices, such as condoms, depends on its proper use, the
cleanliness of surfaces, placing it properly and before any liquid comes out of penis. Studies
of latex condom performance during use reported breakage and slippage rates varying from 1.46%
to 18.60%. Condoms must be put on before any bodily fluid could be exchanged.
Condoms (male or female) are also used to protect against STIs, and used with other forms
of contraception to improve contraceptive effectiveness. For example, simultaneously using both
the male condom and spermicide applied separately is believed to reduce pregnancy rates to those
seen among implant users. However, if two condoms are used simultaneously like male condom on top
of male condom, or male condom inside female condom, this increases the chance of condom failure
and thus should be avoided
Male condom are most frequently made of latex, and can also be made out of synthetic materials
including polyurethane it covers the penis during sexual activity while the female condoms are inserted
into the vagina prior to intercourse.
Female condoms are made of two flexible polyurethane rings and a loose-fitting polyurethane
sheath. According to laboratory testing, female condoms are more effective in preventing the leakage of
body fluids and also in transmission of STIs and HIV. Research has shown that structural integrity of
polyurethane female condoms is not damaged during up to five uses if it is disinfected with water and
household bleach. However, regardless of this study, specialists still recommend that female condoms
be used only once and then discarded.
Male condoms and the diaphragm with spermicide have typical use first-year failure rates of
18% and 12%, respectively. With perfect use condoms are more effective with a 2% first-year failure
rate versus a 6% first-year rate with the diaphragm. Condoms have the additional benefit of helping
to prevent the spread of some sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS.
Contraceptive sponges combine a barrier with a spermicide. Like diaphragms, they are inserted
vaginally before intercourse and must be placed over the cervix to be effective. Typical failure rates
during the first year depend on whether or not a woman has previously given birth, being 24% in those
who have and 12% in those who have not. The sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours before intercourse
and must be left in place for at least six hours afterward.
Note: When latex barriers are used, oil-based lubrication can break down the structure of the
latex and reduce the protection it provides.
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