Barrier methods-There are several barrier methods and more people are using them than in the past.
Condoms-The commonest is the condom. The male version may burst and the correct method of usage to reduce this hazard is shown in the diagram. The advantages are that it cuts down the risk of infection, is widely available, is available free from clinics, and requires no prescription. It causes impotence in some men but can prolong the performance of premature ejaculators. For the same reason some men say that it is like wearing a Wellington on the penis and some women object to it as being ‘unloving’. Women with a fear of semen can find its use an advantage. It should be used from the commencement of sexual proceedings and if the woman puts it on the man it can become an enjoyable part of foreplay. It is usually lubricated. One brand provides a pessary of nonoxynol-9, which kills both sperms and HIV along with the condom. The pessary is placed in the vagina and thereby provides additional protection. The condom is far from foolproof but with careful and conscientious use failure rates can be brought down from the usual 14 to 1 or z pregnancies per hundred woman years.
Clinical trials are under way with the female condom. It amounts to a plastic bag, about three times wider than a male condom, sealed at one end and with a springy plastic ring at the open end. The closed end is put in the vagina and another loose ring is inserted to keep the device in place. The ring at the open end prevents this from slipping into the vagina. Men say they prefer it to the male condom and some women say that it improves their orgasm – perhaps due to the outer ring rubbing the clitoris.
The use of a sheath: Used carefully, a sheath can be a very safe method of contraception.
1) Squeeze air out of teat and apply sheath to penis after placing a few drops of spermicide inside.
2) Unroll the sheath along the length of the penis 3) using other hand to ease it back towards the head of the penis.
4) When the sheath is on completely it should be totally unrolled and the packing rings should still be visible.
5) Withdraw shortly after orgasm keeping a finger or two on the base of the sheath as you withdraw.
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