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Barrier contraception is particularly appropriate for women in stable relationships who can predict when they will have intercourse.  The women chose to use condoms, a female barrier or a cervical cap and spermicides as their sole method of contraception should be careful of the higher failure rates when compared with hormonal methods and IUDs.   Women with latex allergy cannot use most barrier contraceptives.

Male condoms                                                                                                Male condoms are readily available and inexpensive. They are composed of latex, polyurethane, or lamb skin.  The latter type prevents pregnancy but does not prevent the transmission of STIs as latex and polyurethane condoms do.  The newer polyurethane (avanti) condom is thinner, stronger, less constricting, less vulnerable to deterioration than latex types. Many condoms are lubricated with the spermicide nonoxynol-9.  These condoms do not appear to be any more effective than nonlubricated condoms.

The female condom A female condom consists of a soft, thin polyurethane sheath with two flexible rings.  One ring, which contains the closed end of the sheath, is inserted into the vagina.  The other ring, which contains the open end of the sheath, remains outside of the vagina.  When properly inserted, the female condom provides a physical barrier between the penis and vagina, and protects against pregnancy and STIs.  The female condom is significantly more expensive than the male condom. Diaphragm The diaphragm is a prescription-only contraceptive device.  It is inserted into the vagina and positioned to cover the cervix.  The device may be inserted up to 6 hours prior to intercourse and must be kept in the place for at least 6 hours after intercourse.  It should not be worn for longer than 24 hours due to the increased risk of toxic shock syndrome.  Vaginal irritation, recurrent yeast infection, and bacterial vaginosis may be caused by use of a diaphragm. Cervical Cap The cervical cap is a soft rubber cap with a deeper, smaller cup than the diaphragm.  Spermicide must be used with this device.  The device may be left in place for up to 48 hours.  The failure rate is significantly high.  Spermicides Spermicides are chemicals that kill sperm. They are placed in the vagina close to the cervix.  They include creams, jellies, foams, and vaginal inserts and suppositories.

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