Barrier methods work just as they sound like they do. They block sperm from a female's reproductive tract.

Barrier options include condoms, contraceptive sponges, cervical caps and diaphragms.

Male Condoms

Condoms are a male contraceptive that fit over the erect penis to block sperm from entering the vaginal canal.

Modern condoms are usually made of latex or polyurethane. Both of these materials are elastic. There are also lambskin condoms which are much more rare than synthetic products. Lambskin condoms are also much less effective in preventing STDS.

Female Condoms

Female condoms work in much the same way in as male condoms. Like male condoms they are designed to be block sperm from entering the uterus. Female condoms are generally larger than male condoms and are inserted directly into the vagina.

Female condoms have been less than successful in terms of usage distribution. Some people attribute this to the difficulty in inserting the device. Others feel that seeing the outside ring of the condom protruding from the vagina is unattractive.

Diaphragm

The diaphragm is one of the oldest forms of contraceptives for women. The device is shaped like a dome with a malleable circle on the end that allows for it remain in place.

The diaphragm is designed to be inserted into the vagina with the ring facing outside and the dome area turned inwards towards the uterus.

The diaphragm works in a twofold manner. It acts as a blockade to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. Prior to insertion of the diaphragm, the cup is filled with a liquid spermacide.

The cervix holds the diaphragm in place once it is inserted.

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