Barrier Methods
DIAPHRAGM
How does it work?
Diaphragms cover the cervix and this keeps sperm from getting to the egg. To increase effectiveness, spermicide is put into the diaphragm before it is placed over the cervix.
The diaphragm must be left in place for 6 hours after ejaculation of seminal fluid into the vagina to allow time for sperm to die. The diaphragm can be left in place for up to 24 hours at a time. Diaphragms come in a variety of sizes, so you must be seen by a health practitioner to be fit for one.
How effective is it?
Diaphragm effectiveness is 82% to 94%.
What's good about the diaphragm?
- It gives some protection against STIs.
- There are fewer side effects than hormone birth control and intrauterine devices (IUDs).
What's not good about the diaphragm?
- It may be hard for some women to get it in and out of the vagina.
- You must use it every time you have sex and remember to put it in.
- You are at an increased risk for getting urinary tract infections because you can't empty the bladder as well especially if the diaphragm is too large.
CERVICAL CAP
How does is work?
Caps cover the cervix and this keeps sperm from getting to the egg.
Spermicide is put into the cap before it is placed over the cervix. This increases effectiveness.
The cap must be left in place for 8 hours after ejaculation of seminal fluid into the vagina to allow time for sperm to die. The cap can be left in place for up to 2 days at a time.
Cervical caps come in a variety of sizes, so you must be seen by a health practitioner to be fit for one.
How effective is it?
The range of cap effectiveness is 90 to 97% if used with every intercourse. It can drop to 85% when not used with every intercourse.
What's good about the cap?
- Cervical Caps have fewer and less serious side effects than birth control pills and IUDs.
- Their maximum effectiveness is about the same as other methods.
- They can be worn up to 2 days at a time without adding more spermicide, and cervical caps are a birth control method controlled by the woman.
What's not good about the cap?
- It may be hard for some women to get the cap in and out of the vagina.
- It may be difficult to find a health practitioner to fit you for the cap.
- You must remember to use it every time you have sex.
- Cervical caps can develop an unpleasant odor when cap is left in place too long.
- A few women have dislodging during intercourse, and sometimes it can be inconvenient to check cap before and after intercourse.