The only way not to get pregnant is to abstain from sex completely. Hence, today have a wide variety of birth control methods to choose from. Among these are barrier methods that place physical impediments to the movement of sperm into the female reproductive tract. As they come in a wide range of packages, it is a must for you to choose which method best suits your needs and lifestyle. Listed below are the top barrier methods in preventing both wanted and unwanted pregnancies.

1.Spermicide
Spermicides are composed of chemical substances that destroy the living sperm. They come in a variety of gel, foam, cream, film, suppository, and tablet forms. Spermicides may be used alone, but are more effective when used in combination with a condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap.

2. Condoms
A condom is a thin, elastic contraceptive barrier used during sexual intercourse to prevent occurrence of fertilization. Condoms are popular as they are not expensive and are widely available- reducing present rates of sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomonas, syphilis, HIV, and HPV (human papillomavirus).
a.Male Condom.
Flexible and transparent sheath placed over the penis to block semen from entering the partner’s body during sexual intercourse. A male condom may also be paired with a vaginal spermicide to heighten its efficacy.
b.Female Condom
Is a sheath made of nitrile and is prelubricated with a silicone-based lubricant and a soft, flexible ring. A female condom is must be inserted as far as possible into the vagina keeping the ring outside to hold the condom in place.

3.Diaphragm
The diaphragm is a soft dome-shaped cap (latex rubber or silicone made) fitted inside a woman’s vagina to cover the cervix, preventing pregnancy. It must be used together with a spermicide and must be left in place for six to eight hours after sexual intercourse. Because the diaphragm must be fitted deep to the vaginal canal, fitting may require assistance from a trained clinician. Hence, the fit should be checked after childbirth and weight loss or gain.

4. Cervical Cap
The cervical cap is similar to the diaphragm but smaller. It is made with latex or silicone packages that come in different sizes. Similar to the diaphragm, it is partially filled with spermicide and placed over the cervix. Unlike the diaphragm, when using cervical cap, you do not need to reapply spermicide every time you have sex. Leaving it for at least 8 hours is essential to make this contraceptive barrier effective.

5. Sponge
A contraceptive sponge is a soft round sponge filled with spermicide. You use it by inserting it into your vagina before intercourse. The sponge covers the cervix and blocks sperm from getting into the uterus and the spermicide kills sperm. You must leave the sponge in your vagina for 6-8 hours after ejaculation to ensure that all sperm are killed.

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