Loading...

How effective are these methods?

Chemical and barrier contraceptives are short-acting methods of birth control that are used each time a couple has sexual intercourse. Often these two methods are used together for greater effectiveness. Learn more below.

Chemical Contraceptives

Animated sign for no sperm

Spermicides are foams or jellies containing a chemical agent that kills sperm. Before intercourse, the spermicide is placed high in the vagina, near the cervix, to be most effective. Spermicides used alone have an actual effectiveness of 72%.

  • PROS
  • Easily available over the counter
  • Do not require a prescription or doctor visit
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Typically have minimal side effects
  • CONS
  • Not very effective
  • Can cause genital irritation
  • Do not protect against STIs

 

Barrier Contraceptives

As their name suggests, barrier contraceptives work by blocking the path that sperm must take to reach the ovum. There are barrier methods available for both men and women.

Condoms are thin sheaths, typically made of latex, that cover the penis and act as a barrier against fertilization and sexually transmitted infections. The material of some condoms is treated with spermicide to increase their effectiveness as birth control. In actual use, condoms are 82% effective at preventing pregnancy; but they can be up to 98% effective with consistent and proper use. At present, condoms are the only form of birth control available to men other than vasectomy (surgical sterilization).

Photo of condoms and packaging
  • PROS
  • Inexpensive
  • Easily available over the counter
  • Protect against STIs
  • No side effects (unless allergic)
  • CONS
  • May slip off or break
  • Male partner must be cooperative with use
  • May cause latex allergy

Important Information About Condoms

  1. Manufacturers’ instructions for condoms can differ slightly. It’s helpful to read them.
  2. Expiration dates are printed on condom wrappers. Expired condoms are more likely to fail.
  3. Condoms that have been exposed to light or air are more likely to fail. If a condom wrapper is not sealed and intact, the condom should not be used.

 

Barrier Contraceptives (Continued)

A diaphragm (DYE uh fram) is a dome-shaped rubber cup designed to cover a woman's cervix and surrounding area. The diaphragm must be fitted and prescribed by a healthcare provider. Typically, spermicidal jelly is applied on both sides of the diaphragm before insertion. Cervical caps are a smaller type of diaphragm. The actual effectiveness of this method is 88%.

Diagram of how a diaphragm works and functions
  • PROS
  • Once purchased, can last for years with proper care (but must be refitted after a pregnancy)
  • Minimal side effects (related to spermicide)
  • CONS
  • Requires visit to healthcare provider for fitting and prescription
  • Initial cost may be somewhat high
  • Must be placed and used correctly every time