METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION: THE FEMALE BARRIER METHODS: THE DIAPHRAGM, CAP, CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE AND FEMALE CONDOM

Posted on March 27th, 2009, by admin

There are four barrier methods. All four are devices that are placed in the top of the vagina, in front of the cervix prior to intercourse. They work by acting as a barrier to prevent the sperm from passing through the cervix into the uterus.

The cap and diaphragm are circular rubber domes. Caps are shaped like thimbles and fit over the cervix. Diaphragms, which look like rimmed caps, are larger. They fit over the cervix on one side and tuck under the pubic bone on the other. They are both used with spermicides, which are put inside the device before it is placed in the vagina. The diaphragm or cap may be placed in the vagina up to twenty-four hours prior to intercourse. However, if more than three hours elapse before intercourse, additional spermicide must be added. The device must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse. If the couple wishes to have intercourse again during this time, the device must not be removed, but more spermicide must be put directly into the vagina. After use, the device is cleaned and stored for further use.

The sponge looks like a powder puff and contains a spermicide, which is released when the sponge is moistened. After moistening it, the woman places the sponge in the top of her vagina before having sex. The sponge must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse to make sure all the sperm are dead. After use, the sponge is thrown away. Unfortunately, the sponge isn’t highly effective at preventing pregnancy, and therefore is not a recommended contraceptive method.

The female condom is a polyurethane bag with a ring at each end. The ring at the closed end of the bag fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix; the ring at the open end of the bag covers the vulva and prevents the condom from being pushed inside the vagina during intercourse. It is discarded after use. The female condom has been available only for a short time, so experts have not yet been able to assess how effective it is.

*85\95\2*

Share and Enjoy: