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Male Condom

Effectiveness: Average failure rate of 12% (greater protection against pregnancy is possible when used with vaginal contraceptives, such as foam, a sponge, diaphragm or cervical cap)

Overview

The male condom is a latex, rubber or lambskin shield that is worn over the penis, preventing the semen from entering the vagina (which in turn prevents the sperm from entering the uterus and fertilizing an egg). Condoms vary greatly and may be lubricated, ribbed, or treated with spermicide.

• Reduced sensitivity for men
• Penis must be erect before putting one on
• Failure rates are much higher for unmarried couples and teenagers
• New condom must be used during each intercourse
• Condoms have been known to break (or slip off) during intercourse
• Some men and women are allergic to latex condoms, or the chemicals in spermicides
• Possibility that sperm may spill out while the condom is being removed

Female Condom

Effectiveness: Average failure rate of 21%

Overview

The female condom is a polyurethane birth control device that fits inside the vagina. It has two soft rings at each end; one fits over the cervix acting as an anchor: the other, larger ring, stays outside the vagina after insertion. The female condom prevents pregnancy by containing sperm during intercourse, so that sperm cannot fertilize the egg.

• Available without a prescription

• Will not deteriorate when used with oil-based lubricants and is less likely to break

• Can be used by those who are allergic to latex

• May protect against sexually-transmitted diseases including HIV infection
• Covers more of the genitals of both the man and the woman
• Can be inserted up to 8 hours prior to intercourse

• Male and female condoms should not be used at the same time
• Reported as being noisy during intercourse
• Possibility that sperm may spill out while condom is being removed
• New condom must be used during each intercourse session
• Reduced sensation during sex
• Can be difficult to insert

Diaphragm

Effectiveness: About 80% effective when used with a spermicide.

Overview

A vaginal diaphragm is a soft, rubber dome with a flexible metal rim.  Spermicide is applied to the diaphragm, which is inserted into the vagina where it covers the cervix (the opening at the bottom of the uterus).  The diaphragm works to prevent pregnancy in two ways: first, it acts as a barrier to stop sperm from entering the cervical canal, and second; it holds a spermicide that kills the sperm before they are able to enter the uterus (and fertilize an egg).

• Can be put in place up to 3 hours before intercourse
• Slightly reduces the risk of sexually-transmitted diseases although there is no protection against the sexual transmission of HIV
• No side effects or serious health risks
• Inexpensive
  

Disadvantages

• Requires a prescription
• Diaphragm must be in place for 6 to 8 hours after intercourse (so spermicide can destroy sperm)
• Requires spermicides
• May cause sensation of burning, itching, redness, or urinary tract infections

• Must be checked periodically by a health care provider to ensure a correct fit
• May become dislodged during intercourse

Cervical Cap

Effectiveness: Average Failure Rate: 18-36%

Overview

The cervical cap is a smaller version of the diaphragm (thimble-shaped rubber or plastic dome) that covers the cervix. The cap is partially filled with contraceptive jelly or cream.

• May be inserted six hours before intercourse
• Requires less spermicide than a diaphragm
• May help prevent sexually-transmitted diseases

• Requires a pelvic examination by a health care provider
• More spermicide must be added before each intercourse
• Cannot be used during menstruation

• Possibility of bladder infections
• Must be checked periodically by a health care provider to ensure a correct fit
• May become dislodged during intercourse
• Higher failure rates with women who have given birth