[24] Contraception - Barrier Flashcards
Is barrier contraception common?
Yes, one of the most common forms of contraception in the UK
How does barrier contraception prevent pregnancy?
It stops the male’s sperm from coming into contact with the female’s ovum
What is the additional benefit of barrier contraception?
Some forms may decrease the risk of STI transmission
What are male condoms typically made of?
Latex
How are male condoms put on?
They are rolled down from the tip of the penis to the base
Where does semen collect in a male condom?
In a reservoir at the tip end
lol does this really require a card
Do male condoms stop the transmission of STIs?
Yes, of some
Give 2 examples of STIs that male condoms stop the transmission of?
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhoea
What is the failure rate of condoms with perfect use?
2%
What is the typical failure rate of condoms?
16%
What are the advantages of male condoms?
- Not contraindicated by any conditions except latex allergies
- Only contraceptive method available that is controlled by the male, which may be desirable by the couple
- Widely available and simple to use
- Only needs to be used immediately before intercourse
- Protective against many STIs
What alternatives are available for couples with a latex allergy who want to use male condoms?
Polyurethane
How does the efficacy rate differ between latex condoms and polyurethane male condoms?
It is similar
What are the disadvantages of male condoms?
- Perfect use is rarely achieved
- Can reduce sensitivity or arousal
Why is perfect use rarely achieved with male condoms?
- May become dislodged
- Couple may lack motivation to use every time
What are female condoms made from?
Polyurethane
Describe female condoms
They are tubular shaped, where the inner rings sits deep in the vagina and the open outer ring sits just outside the vulva
How do female condoms work?
The male inserts their penis into the female condom, preventing contact with the vagina
Do female condoms reduce the transmission of STIs?
Yes, of some e.g. chlamydia and gonorrhoea
What is the failure rate of female condoms with perfect use?
5%
What is the typical failure rate of female condoms?
21%
What are the advantages of female condoms?
- No contraindications
- Less likely to tear than male condoms
- May protect against some STIs
- Can be inserted up to 8 hours before intercourse
What are the disadvantages of female condoms?
- Perfect use is rarely achieved
- Penis may be inserted between condom and vaginal wall
- Can be noisy and/or uncomfortable for woman during intercourse
Why is perfect use rarely achieved with female condoms?
- May become dislodged
- Couple may lack motivation to use every time
What are diaphragms made of?
Typically rubber with a metal inner frame
Where do diaphragms sit?
Spans the posterior fornix to the anteroinferior wall of the vagina
How do diaphragms work?
They cover the cervix, therefore preventing the entry of semen
How are diaphragms held in place?
Combination of vaginal tone, rigid metal inner frame, and pubic symphysis
What are diaphragms often combined with?
Spermicide
Why are diaphragms often combined with spermicide?
To increase their efficacy
What is the failure rate of the diaphragm with perfect use?
6%
What is the typical failure rate of the diaphragm?
16%
Where do cervical caps sit?
Directly over the cervix
How are cervical caps held in place?
Suction and vaginal tone
What are cervical caps often combined with?
Spermicide
What is the failure rate of cervical caps with perfect use?
9% in nulliparous women, 20% in parous women
What is the typical failure rate of cervical caps?
16% in nulliparous women, 20% in parous women
What are the advantages of diaphragms and cervical caps?
Can be inserted up to 3 hours before intercourse
What are the disadvantages of diaphragms and cervical caps?
- Perfect use rarely achieved
- Require prior planning and careful insertion
- Requiring measuring and fitting to find correct size
- Associated with higher risk of UTIs
- STI transmission is not reduced
What requires a refitting of a diaphragm or cervical cap?
Any weight gain or pregnancy
Why are diaphragms and cervical caps associated with a higher risk of UTIs
Most likely due to position of diaphragm/cap putting pressure on urethra
Why might diaphragms and cervical caps increase the rate of transmission of STIs?
Spermicide may irritate the vaginal mucosa possibly increasing the rate of transmission
