

Barrier Methods
The barrier method stops the sperm and egg meeting to prevent pregnancy.
There are three main types of barrier contraception:
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Condom (external and internal)
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Diaphragm/cap
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Contraceptive sponge
Condoms
How does it work?
There are 2 types of condoms:
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Internal (female) condoms
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External (male) condoms
The internal condom is placed inside the vagina and lines it.
The external condom is placed on the erect penis.
How long does it last?
A new condom should be used each time you have sex.
Who can use it?
Most people can use condoms. However, if you have a latex allergy you should use latex-free condoms.
How effective is it?
The condom is approximately 95-98% effective if used perfectly and 82-87% effective with typical use.
Advantages
There are many advantages to using condoms:
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Protection against STIs and HIV
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Usually no medical side effects
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Easily accessible
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There is a lot of variety
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of condoms include:
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Interruption of sex
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Latex allergies
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Condoms splitting or slipping


Diaphragm or Cap
How does it work?
A diaphragm or cap is inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix.
They should be used with spermicide to be more effective.
How effective is it?
The diaphragm or cap is approximately 92-96% effective if used perfectly and with spermicide and 71-88% effective with typical use.
Who can use it?
Most women can use a diaphragm or cap.
However, they may not be suitable if you have*:
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Problems with your vaginal muscles
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Regular urinary tract infections (UTIs)
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A personal history of toxic shock syndrome or sensitivity to spermicide.
Advantages
Using a diaphragm or cap has its advantages such as:
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No interruption to sex
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Usually no medical side effects
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of a diaphragm or cap include:
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Lack of prevention against STIs
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Reaction to spermicide
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They can be difficult to insert


Contraceptive Sponge
How does it work?
The contraceptive sponge is a small sponge containing spermicide which is inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix.
It should be left inside the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex.
How long does it last?
A new sponge should be used each time you have sex.
How effective is it?
The sponge is approximately 80-90% effective if used perfectly and 76-88% effective with typical use.
Who can use it?
Most women can use a contraceptive sponge.
However, they may not be suitable if you have*:
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Regular urinary tract infections (UTIs)
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Recently given birth or miscarried (or had a termination)
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History of toxic shock syndrome or sensitivity to spermicide
Advantages
The sponge has its advantages such as:
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It is non-hormonal
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There is no interruption to sex
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There are usually no medical side effect
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Most people find it easy to use
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They can be used when breastfeeding
Disadvantages
The disadvantages of the sponge include:
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Lack of prevention against STIs
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Reaction to spermicide
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They can be difficult to insert
*This is not an extensive list. Please see your doctor for further advice.

Sources and Useful links
https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.htm
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/condom
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/internal-condom
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/birth-control-sponge
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/diaphragm
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/cervical-cap
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/male-condoms/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/female-condoms/
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-diaphragm-or-cap/
https://sh24.org.uk/contraception/male-condom
https://sh24.org.uk/contraception/female-condom
https://sh24.org.uk/contraception/diaphragm
https://www.brook.org.uk/your-life/condoms/
https://www.brook.org.uk/your-life/internal-or-female-condoms/
https://www.brook.org.uk/your-life/diaphragms-and-caps/
https://www.tht.org.uk/hiv-and-sexual-health/sexual-health/improving-your-sexual-health/condoms