Birth Control Options for Women - Spermicidal and Barrier Contraception

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Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Condoms are important in the prevention of sexually transmitted disease, including gonorrhea, Chlamydia, syphilis, herpes, trichomoniasis, and HIV.

Most condoms come pre-lubricated. Lubricants can also be purchased and applied separately. Only water-based lubricants (K-Y Jelly, Astroglide, AquaLube, glycerin) should be used with latex condoms. Do not use petroleum jelly or other oil-based lubricant products as these can damage the condom. In general, it's best to use a pre-lubricated condom or to apply a water-based lubricant. Unlubricated condoms may injure vaginal tissue and make it vulnerable to infections.

Condom Materials. Condoms made of latex rubber are the most common types. They are less likely to slip or break than those made of polyurethane, and they are contoured for a better fit that can provide fairly effective protection. Some people are allergic to latex, however, and in some cases the reaction can be very dangerous. The latex smell may also be unpleasant for some people. Condoms made from animal membrane (such as lambskin) can prevent pregnancy, but they are permeable and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

Female Condom

The female condom (Reality, Femidom) is a lubricated, loose-fitting pouch that lines the vagina. It is designed to create a physical barrier against sperm and sexually transmitted diseases by surrounding the penis during intercourse. The failure rate for the female condom is about the same as for the diaphragm and cervical cap. It is available without a prescription but may be hard to find. The female condom may be a good option for women at risk for sexually transmitted diseases and who are not certain that their male partner will use a condom.

Use and Insertion of the Female Condom. The female condom is about 3 inches wide and 6 - 7 inches long (larger than a male condom), with a flexible ring at both ends. Current products are made of polyurethane.

The ring at the closed end is used to insert the device into the vagina and hold it in place over the cervix.

The ring at the open end remains outside the vagina and partly covers the labia (lips).