METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION: THE CONDOM AND SPERMICIDES
This method is also called the male barrier method, the sheath, prophylactics, ‘johnnies’, ‘jolly bags’. Trench letters’, ‘Durex’ (one of many brand names) and preventives. The condom fits on the erect penis in much the same way that a glove fits over a finger. The condom is placed over the erect penis prior to intercourse. (This must be done before the penis enters the vagina.) When the male ejaculates, the sperm are trapped in the condom so they don’t enter the vagina. After intercourse, before the penis becomes soft again, the condom is held firmly at the base of the penis (to avoid spilling sperm) and the penis and condom are withdrawn from the vagina. After use, the condom is discarded.
Spermicides-These are sperm-killing chemicals that come in the form of creams, jellies,
C-films, pessaries and aerosol foams. They are placed in the top of the vagina shortly before intercourse and work by killing sperm before they can get through the cervix, into the uterus. Some types of creams and jellies are used with caps and diaphragms, others are made to be used alone. However, when used alone they aren’t very effective at preventing pregnancy, and therefore are not recommended methods.
Contraceptive foam is more effective, especially when used with a condom. A special applicator is used to insert the foam into the top of the vagina, which may be done as many as three hours prior to intercourse. If more time elapses before intercourse, if a couple decides to have sex a second time or if the woman gets up and walks round, allowing the spermicide to drip out, more foam must be added before intercourse. The foam works by acting as a barrier as well as by killing or stunning the sperm.
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