There are multiple types of contraception that people can use to reduce the risk of pregnancy, and in some cases, sexually transmitted diseases. The most effective birth control methods are surgical and hormonal contraception, but barrier methods can also be effective when used correctly.
Function
As the name implies, barrier methods of contraception work by forming a barrier between the sperm and the egg (with varying degrees of effectiveness). When the sperm does not meet the egg, pregnancy cannot result. With the exception of male condoms, all types of barrier methods involve placing a device in the vagina to prevent the sperm from entering the uterus.
Types
The most common type of barrier method is the male condom. Condoms are readily available over the counter, and they work by forming a latex sheath over the penis and catching the sperm so that it never makes contact with the vagina at all. Condoms also provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases, but in the event that a condom breaks or slips off during sex, condoms can lose their effectiveness. Female condoms work similarly but instead involve placing a ring inside the vagina that contains a latex barrier between the cervix and the penis.
Diaphragms and cervical caps are also barrier methods, but they work by blocking the entry into the uterus so that sperm cannot pass. Diaphragms and cervical caps must be fitted by a physician and put in place immediately before sex (and left in place for a few hours afterward). Diaphragms are washed and reused after sex.
The Today sponge is another barrier method that works similarly to diaphragms and cervicals caps, with the main difference being that it is available over the counter for single uses.
Benefits
Barrier methods of contraception can be beneficial for individuals who cannot use hormonal contraception for medical reasons (or who wish to avoid hormonal contraception for personal reasons) and who are not interested in permanent surgical birth control. In the case of condoms, it's a definite benefit that the condoms are available over the counter and can be easily purchased at any drug store. Condoms can also provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases, which can be beneficial for individuals who are not in monogamous relationships, and have a fairly easy clean up process.
Drawbacks
Some men do not like the feel of condoms and feel that they reduce sensation. In the case of diaphragms and cervical caps, many women do not like the inconvenience of having to be fitted for the devices by a physician and they may find that inserting these devices is cumbersome and interrupts the spontaneity of sex. It can also be inconvenient that diaphragms and cervical caps must be left in place for a number of hours after each instance of sexual intercourse, and washing the devices can be inconvenient as well.
Warning
The effectiveness of barrier methods is between 80 and 95 percent, depending on the device and whether or not it was used correctly. Sometimes even with correct use, barrier methods can fail and a woman can become pregnant. In addition, condoms are the only barrier method that provides any protection against sexually transmitted diseases--and the protection offered by condoms is not 100 percent. Always practice safe sex and remember that correct and consistent use is of utmost importance when you are using barrier methods.
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