Condoms
When a condom is used correctly, it can be an effective birth
control method. When it is combined with one of the spermacides,
it is even better! This method is also considered to be an
excellent way to prevent transmission of sexually transmitted
diseases, including HIV/AIDS, again when used correctly. This
can not be emphasized enough! Condoms are commonly made out
of latex, and are often called rubbers. They can also be made
out of plastic or natural membranes. A condom looks like a
long, thin, uninflated balloon. Condoms prevent the man’s
semen from entering the woman’s vagina. Some condoms also
contain a spermicide, which kills sperm. This provides additional
protection against accidental pregnancy.
Effectiveness:
Among typical couples who use latex condoms for men, about
12 in 100 will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first
year. But if the latex condoms are used consistently and correctly,
about 3 in 100 will become pregnant. If you are very careful,
only 1 to 2 in 100 will become pregnant. IMPORTANT to note:
Condoms made from animal membranes offer less protection than
condoms made from latex.
The
Pros:
1) Latex condoms offer the user a great method of protection
against STD's, and some viral infections.
2)
Condoms assist men in "lasting longer" so those
with problems with premature ejaculation might benefit from
their use.
3)
For women allergic to sperm, using a condom helps prevent
any allergic reaction.
4)
Condoms come in a variety of colors, scents, and taste, which
add to the sex for some people.
The
Cons:
1) For those allergic to latex, do not use!
2)
In some men, local irritation can occur. Try changing brands
to see if that helps.
3)
Putting on a condom breaks the flow of sex.
4)
Condom can be torn or damaged when putting it on.
5)
Can only be used with appropriate lubricants. DO NOT use with
oil-based lubricants, such as Vaseline, sun tan oil, whipped
cream, or Crisco. They will damage the condom!
6)
Some men have trouble maintaining an erection with a condom.
7)
Care must be maintained when removing the condom covered penis
from the vagina AFTER ejaculation.
8)
The condom MUST be used with each sexual intercourse.
Putting
on a condom:
You may find it helpful to practice by putting a condom on
two fingers. Tear the package at the edge to avoid damaging
the condom. If the man is not circumcised, roll back the foreskin.
Place the open end of the unrolled condom over the erect penis.
The rolled rim should be facing away from the penis. Leave
1/2 inch to 1 inch at the tip of the condom to provide a place
for the semen. If there is not enough room at the tip, the
semen could break the condom. Unroll the condom along the
length of the penis, toward the body. If it does not unroll
easily, it may be backwards. Throw it away and try another.
Do not unroll it before putting it on the penis.
Extras:
1) Use only with water based lubricants such as Astroglide,
KY Jelly or KY Jelly Plus Nonoxynol-9 to lessen the chances
of damage to the condom.
2)
DO NOT reuse the condom. One time use only!
3)
Store in a darkened place as light can damage the condoms.
4)
Condoms can be bought just about anywhere.
5)
Condoms cost $.30 to $.50 each. Some can cost more, depending
on colors, texture and style.
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The
Diaphragm
The diaphragm, when used with an appropriate spermacide can
be an effective means of birth control. It is not as effective
as some of the other methods, but if used correctly it is
definitely more successful. Together, the diaphragm and spermicide
keep sperm from getting to the egg. The diaphragm is a rubber
cup which when placed into the woman’s vagina, over the cervical
area, it blocks the sperm from getting into the vagina, and
then to the egg. Sperm are tricky, and can slip right by the
diaphragm, so using a spermicide is important!
Effectiveness:
If the diaphragm and spermicide are used correctly and with
every act of intercourse, about 6 in 100 women will become
pregnant in the first year. But among typical couples who
use the diaphragm, about 18 in 100 will experience an accidental
pregnancy in the first year.
The
Pros:
1) Using the diaphragm allows the women to be in charge of
her own birth control.
2)
The diaphragm can be inserted hours before sexual intercourse.
3)
No side effects from hormones!
4)
The penis can remain in the vagina after ejaculation.
The
Cons:
1) You need to see a physician or midwife for a prescription
as you needed fitted for proper sizing.
2)
Many women do not insert it correctly. YOU must feel comfortable
touching yourself.
3)
If sex was unplanned, you would have to take a break to
insert the diaphragm, thus interrupting the flow of things.
4)
If left into long, it carries the risk of an infection.
The
Risks:
1) Allergic reactions to the material used in the diaphragm
or spermicide used in conjunction. Although rare, Toxic
Shock Syndrome has occurred.
Extras:
1) Can be inserted up to six hours prior to sexual intercourse.
2)
YOU should demonstrate to your MD or midwife that you are
able to insert it correctly.
3)
It should NOT be uncomfortable when inserted correctly.
4)
It should be left in six hours after you had intercourse.
5)
Before having sex again, you should insert more spermicide
into the vagina. Do NOT take out the diaphragm until 6 hours
after the last time you had sex.
6)
Do not use oil-based lubricants with the diaphragm as it
can damage the latex used to make the diaphragm.
7)
You should be re-fitted for a new diaphragm if you lose
or gain more than 20 pounds or have a baby.
8)
A diaphragm costs between $10 and $20. You use approximately
$0.50 worth of spermicide with each insertion.
9)
DO NOT use if you are allergic to latex!!
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Spermicides
Spermicides are effective when used to help prevent a pregnancy,
BUT are more effective when used with another method, such
as a condom or diaphragm. Spermicides cover the sperm, defeating
its purpose. According to some studies, the active ingredient
Nonoxynol-9 provides some protection against STDs.
Effectiveness:
Among typical couples who use vaginal spermicides, about
21 in 100 will experience an accidental pregnancy in the
first year. If vaginal spermicides are used consistently
and correctly, about 6 in 100 will become pregnant. You
can get a much higher level of protection using a vaginal
spermicide with a barrier method such as condoms, diaphragms
or cervical caps.
The
Pros:
1) You do not need a prescription. Sold in many places.
2)
The penis may remain in the vagina after ejaculation.
3)
It may help protect against some STD's.
4)
It can be placed in the vagina prior to intercourse.
The
Cons:
1) It must be used correctly each time you have sexual intercourse.
2)
Must be stored properly or it will lose it's effectiveness.
3)
Allergic reactions can occur.
4)
They can be messy.
5)
They do not offer protection against HIV!
6)
You must be comfortable touching your vulva when inserting.
7)
It does not have a pleasant taste.
Extras:
1) Can be found in the form of creams, jellies, suppositories,
foams, and films.
2)
KNOW the right way to use the product.
3)
Urinary tract infections are common when these products
are used.
4)
If you have sex again, you must re-insert more.
5)
Can be used during a period.
6)
NO douching after use of the product.
7)
Take care of the applicator to avoid any potential infections.
