|
Includes male and female condoms,
spermicides, diaphragms and cervical caps
 Are
most effective when used consistently and correctly
- Pregnancy rates in typical use range from 12 percent
for condoms to 21 percent for spermicides
- Safe, with no systemic effects
|
Barrier methods include male condoms, female condoms, spermicides,
diaphragms and cervical caps. These methods can be used alone,
in combinations, or with non-barrier contraceptives, such as
pills.
Barrier methods are most effective at preventing pregnancy
when used consistently and correctly. If these methods are used
correctly with every act of intercourse, called "perfect
use," pregnancy rates range from about 3 percent for male
condoms to 7 percent for spermicides. A 3 percent pregnancy
rate means that three out of every 100 women using this method
for a year would get pregnant. Normal use in everyday life,
which is not always consistent or correct, is called "typical
use." In these circumstances, pregnancy rates range from
about 12 percent for condoms to 21 percent for spermicides,
but in some settings the rates may be substantially higher.
Barrier methods are safe and have no systemic effects, although
in rare cases some people may be allergic to latex condoms or
spermicides.
The most widely used spermicide, Nonoxynol-9, does not protect
against transmission of HIV or other STIs, nor does it add protection
when used with condoms. Moreover, when used alone during anal
sex or frequent vaginal sex, it can cause genital irritation
and may increase the risk of HIV transmission. Nonoxynol-9 is
still an appropriate method of contraception for women at low
risk of STI/HIV, but is most effective when used with another
barrier method.
|
