Barrier methods

• Barrier methods provide a physical barrier to semen entering the uterus and causing pregnancy

  Only method that helps protect against STIs

  Not 100% effective for contraception or preventing STIs
• Condoms:

  • About 98% effective with perfect use
  • Significantly less with typical use - 82%
  • Standard condoms are made of latex
  • Using oil-based lubricants can damage latex condoms
  • Polyurethane condoms can be used in latex allergy
• Diaphragms and cervical caps:

  • Silicone cups that fit over the cervix and prevent semen from entering the uterus
  • Women fits before sex and leaves in place for at least 6 hours after
  • Should be used with spermicide gel to further reduce the risk of pregnancy
  • When used perfectly with spermicide they are around 95% effective
  • Offer little protection against STIs
• Dental dams:

  • Used during oral sex to provide a barrier between the mouth and the vulva, vagina or anus
  • Used to prevent infections that can spread through oral sex:
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhoea
  • HSV
  • HPV
  • E. coli
  • Pubic lice
  • Syphilis
  • HIV