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__Barrier Methods__!

__Barrier Method__- methods of birth control. Barrier birth control methods are forms of birth control that block sperm from entering the uterus, so it can't fertilize an egg. All of these methods except for one are used by women. The only barrier method for men is the male condom. __ Methods __ Female condoms are forms of barrier birth control methods that are worn by the female sexual partner. When used properly, the female condom covers the inside of the vagina completely. This blocks liquids from the cervix and uterus. Some women, however, do not like using this form because a part of the condom can stick out on the outside the vagina. It is also less effective than the male condom and only about 79% effective in preventing pregnancy. The price for female condoms is higher than male condoms and both types are only used once. The cost ranges from $2.50 to $5.00 each. Female condoms do not have any side effects except to people who are allergic to latex. Condoms help prevent the transmission of STD's by reducing the chances of partner exposure through sexual contact or fluid erections. The typical use of female condoms, which is the average way most people use them, has a failure rate of 21%. This means that 21 people out of every 100 will become pregnant during the first year of use. You may increase effectiveness by adding a Spermicidal foam, jelly, or cream with the condom. You should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any pregnancy symptoms. They are available over the counter.

Two similar types of barrier birth control methods are the diaphragm and the cervical cap__.__ Both methods require fitting by a gynecologist. The diaphragm had a spring-like ring supported by a thick layer of rubber, and it is filled with spermicide before being placed in the vagina. The cervical cap is also used with spermicide and fits over the cervix. Both the diaphragm and cervical cap are only worn during sex and a few hours before and after sexual intercourse. The highest risk of pregnancy occurs during the first few months women use cervical caps. Cervical caps are not recommended for women who have had Toxic Shock Syndrome, which can be caused by tampons. Some women may experience allergic reactions to the rubber of the cervical cap or the spermicide they use. If this happens and your spermicide has nonoxynol-9, try a spermicide without this chemical. Cervical caps may offer some limited protection against HIV/AIDS and against some, but not all, sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They can be found at clinics and c ost about $60–$75.

· Both of these barrier birth control methods can be less expensive over the long run than the female condom because they only need replacement about once yearly. Some women do have problems with the comfort factor of either of these methods. Occasionally women can also have allergies to spermicide, which makes wearing either of these barrier birth control methods difficult or impossible. The diaphragm and the cervical cap are both nearly equal to the female condom in effectiveness. The diaphragm is about 82% effective in preventing pregnancy, and the cervical cap is about 80% effective.

The IUD is the most permanent, and most effective of the barrier birth control methods. Many IUDS now release ﻿ progesterone , which prevents a woman going through her normal period cycle, lessening pregnancy. This form of birth control is intended for a woman who plans to be sexually active for a long time without getting pregnant, since unintended pregnancy with an IUD in place often means miscarriage of an unborn child. Intrauterine means in the uterus; a gynecologist must implant an IUD device in a minor office procedure. The IUD may stay in place for 1-10 years, and has a 98-99% chance of preventing pregnancy. If the device proves uncomfortable, the procedure to remove an IUD is quite simple, but many women find IUDs infinitely preferable and more effective than other barrier birth control methods. It should be noted that IUDS, diaphragms, and cervical caps do not protect against STDs, and that no barrier birth control methods are completely effective in preventing pregnancy. An IUD costs about $200 to $400 plus the cost of having a doctor insert and remove it, as well as follow-up visits. Mood changes, acne, headaches, breast tenderness, pelvic pain cramping (copper IUD), increased bleeding during period (copper IUD) and nausea are all side effects of using IUD.