Home:Health and Fitness / Contraceptives Birth Control

A spermicide is an easy to use method of contraception which can be highly effective (with a rate of 94% effectiveness), safe to use and it also provides lubrication during intercourse. The active ingredient for spermicides is Nonoxynol-9 (N-9). This method of birth control is non-hormonal and well suited for women who are unable to use hormonal products because of the risk of their dangerous side effects.

Contraception refers to any measure used to prevent male sperm from meeting up with a female egg, stopping fertilization of the egg taking place and preventing pregnancy occurring.

Female condoms are made out of polyurethane (plastic), with a flexible ring at each end; one side will be open and will lay outside the body to make sure the condom does not disappear completely inside the vagina, while the other will be used to guide the condom into the right position and will be closed up to prevent the sperm from escaping inside the vagina.

Male condoms are one of the oldest methods of contraception and unlike any other method, a condom has a dual use: they stop conception and are also effective in protecting against some sexually transmitted infections (STI) including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). They may also help protect against cancer of the cervix.

A diaphragm is a barrier method of birth control made of a soft, flexible rim latex (rubber) or silicone dome-shape which is placed over the cervix, behind the pubic bone before intercourse; therefore preventing the sperm from reaching the uterus and stopping pregnancy occurring.