Summary

In this Study Session, you have learned that:

• Barrier methods of birth control are physical or chemical barriers that prevent sperm from passing through the woman's cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes to fertilise an egg. Mechanical barriers are devices that provide a physical barrier between the sperm and the egg while chemical barriers are known as sperm-killing substances or spermicides
• Two types of condoms are available: male and female. The male condom is a thin sheath that provides the best protection against many STDs, including HIV.
• The female condom is a thin plastic pouch that lines the vagina. It is held in place by a closed inner ring at the cervix and an outer ring at the opening of the vagina. It can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex and provides some protection against STDs.
• The diaphragm is a small dome-shaped device that fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix. It is used with spermicides.
• The diaphragm does not protect against STDs, including HIV. A male or female condom should be used with the diaphragm to provide STD protection.
• A spermicide is a foam, cream, jelly, suppository (an insert that melts after it is inserted into the vagina), or film (thin sheets). Spermicides can be used with all other barrier methods except the sponge, which already contains spermicides.
• Spermicides should be inserted into the vagina close to the cervix no more than 30 minutes before intercourse. It should remain in place for 6-8 hours after sex. Spermicides should be reapplied with each act of sex.