Barrier Contraceptives - Making Your Choice

Diaphragm is a dome-shaped silicone or latex cup with a flexible rim. Women can use it by coating the inside and the outer edge of the diaphragm with spermicide, and inserting the same into her vagina before the intercourse. The diaphragm works effectively, as its dome covers the cervix and blocks sperm. The benefit of using the same is that it can be inserted before as much as six hours before intercourse, and can stay there for up to 24 hours.

Cervical cap is a thimble-shaped silicon or latex cup with a firm round rim, smaller than a diaphragm. It also works almost the same way as diaphragm. Women can use it by coating its inside with spermicide, and inserting the same into the vagina before the intercourse. Cervical cap works by blocking sperm, as it fits snugly around the base of the cervix. Like diaphragm, women can insert it into the vagina up to six hours prior to intercourse, but it can stay there for up to 72 hours as compared to the 24 hours in case of using diaphragm.

Commonly known as rubbers, male condoms are Polyurethane or latex sheath that is used to cover the penis. You can also find male condoms with lubricant or spermicide added. Men can use it by placing the same on their penis before intercourse. It works by blocking the passage of sperm and eventually prevents pregnancy. The best thing with male condoms is that they do not require any prescription. These are easily available everywhere, and are an inexpensive method to provide the best protection against STIs and HIV. However, in comparison to latex condoms, Polyurethane condoms are much better and safer. The reason is latex condoms are used with limited types of lubricants, such as, KY, Astrogilde, etc.

Shaped like a sock with flexible rings at each end, a female condom is a soft, loose-fitting polyurethane sheath. Women can use it by placing it inside the vagina, where the ring at the closed end holds the pouch in place, while the ring at the open end remains outside. Like male condoms, the biggest advantage of using a women condom is that it effectively protects against STIs and HIV. What is more, women can insert it up to eight hours prior to intercourse.

Available as a gel, foam, cream, film, suppository or tablet, spermicide is a chemical that is available in different doses and concentrations and it works by killing the sperm membrane. Alone or with a vaginal barrier method, spermicide can be used either way. The biggest advantage of using the same is that it provides moderate protection from STI infection.