Barrier Methods of Birth Control

Treatment Overview

Barrier methods of birth control block sperm from entering the uterus. 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.
• The barrier method then blocks any remaining sperm from passing through the cervix to fertilize an egg.

Barrier methods include the diaphragm, cervical cap, 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. Be sure to read the instructions before using a barrier method. It is very important that you use a barrier method correctly every time you have sex.

Sexually transmitted infection protection

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.

Advantages of all barrier methods

Barrier methods of birth control:

• Do not affect a woman's or man's future fertility.
• Are only used at the time of sexual intercourse.
• Are safe for a woman to use while she is breastfeeding.
• Do not affect other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
• Are less expensive than hormonal methods of birth control, and some are available without a prescription.

Condoms and diaphragms may reduce the risk of cervical cancer, which is caused by a sexually transmitted human papillomavirus. Condoms also are the best method for reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Disadvantages of all barrier methods

Failure rates for barrier methods are higher than for most other methods of birth control. If you are considering using a barrier method for birth control, think through what the emotional and financial costs of an unintended pregnancy would be if the method fails.

To prevent pregnancy with a barrier method, you and your partner must be comfortable with using it and be prepared to use it every time you have sex. For some couples, barrier methods are not a good choice because one or both partners:

• Find it embarrassing to use.
• Do not want a barrier method to interrupt foreplay or intercourse.

Some people develop allergies to spermicides. But using spermicide is advised with diaphragms or cervical caps. So if you can't use spermicide, you will need to find a different form of birth control.

For people who have an allergy to latex, polyurethane condoms are available. Latex condoms are slightly more dependable than polyurethane condoms.