Barrier Methods

Condoms Female condom Male condoms

Mechanism of action Prevents the sperm from gaining access to the upper reproductive tract, preventing it from meeting the egg. In addition condoms offer the best protection against HIV and STI.

Advantages Effective immediately Do not affect breastfeeding Can be used as backup to other methods No known method-related health risks No known systemic side effects Widely available No prescription or medical assessment is required Inexpensive (in the short term)

Limitations A new condom must be worn for each act of sexual intercourse May cause itching for a few people who are allergic to latex Effectiveness as contraceptives depends on willingness to follow instructions. Most effective when used correctly and consistently. User-dependent (requires continued motivation and use with each act of intercourse). Disposal of used condoms may be a problem. If not properly disposed of, may be a source of infection to others, especially children.

Dual protection and dual method use (use of condoms for FP and for protection against STI/ HIV) Dual method use (Use another method for FP and condoms for protection against STI/ HIV Condoms Male condoms Female condoms or  Condoms and another family planning method

How to use a female condom

Open package carefully Make sure the condom is well-lubricated inside 1 Inner ring Outer ring Open package carefully Make sure the condom is well-lubricated inside

2 Choose a comfortable position

Squeeze the inner ring, at the closed end 3 Squeeze the inner ring, at the closed end

4 Gently insert the inner ring into the vagina Place the index finger inside condom, and push the inner ring up as far as it will go Make sure the outer ring is outside the vagina and the condom is not twisted Be sure that the penis enters inside the condom and stays inside it during intercourse

Reuse is not recommended To remove, twist outer ring and pull gently 5 Reuse is not recommended To remove, twist outer ring and pull gently Throw away condom safely