What Contraceptives Are Involved with the Barrier Method?

There are lots of contraceptive methods you can use to prevent unintended pregnancies, including the barrier methods of birth control.

At Raveco Medical, our experienced gynecologists can discuss all available options of birth control to help you find the right one for you. They can discuss the pros and cons of the barrier method and other types of contraceptives during a birth control counseling appointment.

How barrier methods of birth control works

Barrier methods of birth control work like barriers to keep sperm from meeting eggs. When used properly, barrier methods of birth control can prevent pregnancy but may not be as effective as birth control pills and other forms of contraception.

There are also barrier methods that can protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Types of barrier birth controls

We offer many types of birth control, including barrier method contraceptives. Common types of barrier birth controls available include:

Condoms

A condom is made of thin material, such as latex, and fits over the penis to trap sperm before they reach eggs.

There are also female condoms, made of a plastic pouch that sits in the vagina. The pouch is held in place by a closed ring at your cervix and an outer ring at the opening of your vagina.

Condoms can prevent pregnancy and protect you from infections spread through sexual activity. They are available over-the-counter at retail stores.

Spermicide

Spermicide is a chemical agent that inactivates sperm. You can use spermicide on its own to prevent pregnancy or apply it to a condom or other barrier birth control for maximum protection.

Sponges

A birth control sponge is a round, soft foam device that contains spermicide. You insert it into the vagina to cover the opening of the cervix so sperm can’t enter the uterus.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a latex or silicone dome-shaped device that fits inside the vagina and covers your cervix. To prevent pregnancy, spermicide must be used with a diaphragm.

Diaphragms are only available by prescription, and our team at Raveco Medical can fit in over your cervix during a simple, in-office procedure.

Cervical cap

A cervical cap is a plastic dome that fits over your cervix to prevent sperm and egg from meeting. The cap stays in place with suction and should also be used with a spermicide to prevent pregnancy.

Like a diaphragm, you can only get a cervical cap by prescription. We can fit you with a cap during an in-office visit.

Barrier methods benefits

There are several benefits to using barrier methods as a form of birth control. One of the biggest benefits is their convenience. You can buy condoms, sponges, and other barrier contraceptives from drug stores and grocery stores when you need them without a prescription.

Barrier methods like condoms are also the only way to protect yourself from STDs besides abstinence.

Other benefits of barrier birth controls include:

Nonhormonal
Safe for breastfeeding
Safe for smokers
Cost-effective
Doesn’t affect menstrual cycles

If you’re interested in learning more about which barrier methods of birth control can work for you, we have offices in Forest Hills, Woodside, and Jackson Heights, New York. Schedule a consultation online or call the Raveco Medical office nearest to you today.