Physical Barriers
Physical barriers act as shields or obstacles, preventing direct contact between the penis (and its secretions) and the vagina/frontal opening, cervix, and uterus. Some, like external and internal condoms, also help reduce the transmission of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Illustration and Animation: Mabelle Sawan
Internal condom:
Made up of polyurethane, the internal condom is an effective method to prevent unplanned pregnancies and protect against sexually transmitted (STIs). It is inserted before intercourse and remains in place for up to 8 hours.
Pros:
Lowers the transmission rate of STIs.
Less likely to break compared to the external condom.
Less likely to cause allergic reactions due to being latex-free.
Can be inserted several hours prior to intercourse and does not interrupt flirting, foreplay, or intercourse.
Cons:
Not easily available.
More expensive than the external condom.
The outer ring may cause discomfort.
May cause cracking or popping noises.
External condom:
The external condom is the most commonly used physical barrier. Usually made of latex, it is a thin rubbery cover that is rolled over the penis when fully erect. The external condom is an effective method to prevent unplanned pregnancies and the transmission of STIs when used properly.
What’s the right way to put on a condom?
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Pros:
Highly effective against pregnancy when used correctly.
Lowers the transmission rates of STIs.
Affordable and widely available.
Tips:
If both you and your partner have agreed to stop using condoms, we recommend that you first discuss this with your physician. They can advise you on STI tests and suggest suitable contraception alternatives.
Always keep condoms ready/on hand, especially if you anticipate substance use/being under the influence of substances.
It is best to apply water-based or silicon-based lubricants to prevent irritation, friction, and condom breakage. Avoid oil-based lubes and products like massage oil, baby oil, Vaseline, and lotion.
Adding a couple of drops of water-based or silicon-based lubricants inside the condom could enhance pleasure.
Cons:
May not be available when needed at the time of sexual activity.
Some complain that it reduces sensation.
May interrupt flirting, foreplay, or intercourse.
Latex may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Diaphragms and cervical caps
Made of latex or silicon, filled with spermicides, and available in different sizes, these devices are inserted into the vagina 3 hours before intercourse to prevent pregnancy by blocking and inhibiting sperm from reaching the uterus. To ensure effectiveness, spermicide should be applied 1 hour before intercourse and the device should be left in place for 6 hours after intercourse. Cervical caps and diaphragms can be used multiple times with proper care and maintenance.
Pros:
Reusable and reversible.
Non-hormonal contraception.
Effective when placed properly.
Accessible without a prescription.
Does not interrupt flirting, foreplay, and intercourse.
Cons:
Some may be allergic to latex and/or spermicides, potentially causing irritation or discomfort.
Discomfort during insertion.
Reduced effectiveness when timing guidelines are not followed.
Does not protect against STIs.
Insertion:
Wash and dry your hands.
Remove the diaphragm or cervical cap from the package.
Apply spermicide to the inner surface and spread it around to ensure it covers all surfaces.
Relax pelvic muscles.
Find a comfortable position (lying down, squatting, or standing with one foot on a chair).
Squeeze the edges together to form a C shape and gently insert it into the vagina to cover the cervix.
Use your finger to ensure proper placement.
Leave the diaphragm in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse, and the cervical cap for at least 12 hours.
Removal:
Wash and dry your hands.
Find a comfortable position (lying down, squatting, or standing with one foot on a chair).
Locate the rim of the device with your finger.
Gently hook the rim.
Pull it gently and slowly.
Clean it with warm water and let it dry before storing it.
The Sponge:
The contraceptive sponge is a soft, round-shaped device made of polyurethane and soaked in spermicide. It is inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse and protects for up to 30 hours, preventing pregnancy by covering the cervix and hindering sperm from reaching the egg.
Pros:
Accessible without a prescription.
Discreet and does not require a doctor's appointment.
Non-hormonal.
Does not interrupt flirting, foreplay, and intercourse.
Insertion:
Wash and dry your hands.
Relax pelvic muscles.
Find a comfortable position (lying down, squatting, or standing with one foot on a chair).
Remove the sponge from the package.
Gently insert it as far into the vagina as possible, aiming for the cervix.
Use your finger to ensure proper placement.
Cons:
Less effective than other contraception methods.
Discomfort while inserting.
Some may be allergic to spermicide.
Does not protect against STIs.
Removal:
Clean and dry your hands.
Relax your pelvic muscles.
Insert your finger to locate the ring.
Hook your finger around the edges.
Gently pull the sponge out.
Spermicide:
Spermicide is a type of chemical substance contraception that prevents pregnancy by killing and immobilizing sperm. It is available in various forms such as foam, cream, gel, suppositories, and films and is applied inside the vagina or on a barrier method like the diaphragm and the cervical caps
Cons:
Less effective on its own and is best used with cervical caps and diaphragms or with other contraceptives.
Some may be allergic to it.
Protects for an hour only.
Does not protect against STIs.
Pros:
Non-hormonal.
Over-the-counter availability and does not need a prescription.
Written by:
Fatima Khalil | Sexual health coordinator
Fatima Khalil is the coordinator of sexual health education and outreach at Marsa Sexual Health Center and is currently pursuing a degree in child education. With more than 7 years of experience in the field of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, she has developed several guidelines and educational materials on proper services provision, sexually transmitted infections, and women's health.