The barrier method of contraception prevents fertilization, ensuring that the sperm does not reach the woman’s egg during intercourse. It is used to prevent pregnancy and protect oneself from sexually transmitted diseases. There are many types of barrier contraceptives and this article discusses them in detail.

What are barrier contraceptive methods?
These are essentially contraceptives that can be inserted before any sexual activity and discarded after. These are single-user devices and should not be reused at any cost.

Barrier methods are safe and do not trigger any health risks, and are safe for breastfeeding women. These devices are inexpensive, and most are available over the counter or can be bought from supermarkets. However, in some cases, one could go through allergic reactions, and sometimes it could be difficult and embarrassing to insert it just before intercourse. There are many types of barrier-method contraceptive devices available. Check them out below.

1. Male condoms
Made of plastic, rubber, or animal membrane, this is used to cover the penis during intercourse, preventing the sperm from reaching the uterus.

2. Female condoms
These are thin plastic pouches that line the vagina and are held by a thin inner ring in one end at the cervix and an outer ring at the vagina. A woman can insert it before intercourse, and the procedure is similar to using a tampon. It is vital to note that both male and female condoms should be used only once. If the condoms are not inserted properly, or the condoms leak, or get dislodged during intercourse, there is a risk of pregnancy.

3. Spermicide
It is a chemical available in the form of gel, cream, or foam that can kill the sperm after ejaculation. Women can use it before intercourse. This contraceptive is becoming popular as it is cheaper, easy to use, and available across the counter, without prescriptions. It does not interfere with hormones or disrupt any internal functions. However, it could result in allergic reactions in women as well as men. If someone uses it multiple times with more than one partner, it cannot prevent STIs.

Spermicides are advisable for those with one single sexual partner. Read instructions carefully as most of them should be inserted at least 10 to 24 before intercourse. If you have it for longer and indulge in sexual activity, the risk of becoming pregnant is higher.

4. Sponge
Another popular method of contraceptive for women, a sponge, is a round device made of foam that contains spermicide. It can only be used to delay pregnancy and is not effective in preventing SITs. It can be inserted 24 hours before sexual activity and has to stay in place for 6 hours after intercourse. The number of times intercourse is engaged in within those 30 hours does not render the decide ineffective.

5. Cervical cap
This is another one of the most popular methods to prevent pregnancy. It is a small plastic dome that fits tightly over the cervix, preventing the sperm from entering the uterus. Doctors recommend using a cervical cap along with a spermicide. They have to be prescribed by a healthcare professional, and they will also help you fit it. You should leave it in at least 6 hours after sex, and it should not stay inserted for more than 48 hours.