Barrier Methods of Contraception

Achieve contraception by physically preventing sperm access to ovum.

Male Condoms (Pearl index 3.6 i.e. not perfect)

• Incorrect use is a common problem and the use of oil based and/or spermicidal lubrication causes problems too
• They are a male method (but are visible to the female) and require motivation (not independent of intercourse)
• However, they are cheap, effective, almost no contraindications, not reliant on the medical profession
• They also provide the extra protection against STI/cancer of the cervix

The diaphragm, cervival cap and female condom

• Both the diaphragm and cap require fitting prior to sexual intercourse
• The use of spermicide is recommended to increase protection (this may require ‘topping up’ if more than 4 hours have passed since insertion)
• They should be left in 6 hours after intercourse.
• As a result, there are problems with loss of spontaneity, patient motivation, annoyance and poor vaginal tone etc
• But they do provide an alternative to hormonal contraception if the individual does not wish to use hormonal methods.