Barrier methods of family planning 189
Barrier methods of family planning
Barrier methods include the condom for men, condom for
women, diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge and spermicide.
Condom for Men (rubber, prophylactic)
A condom is a narrow bag of thin rubber that the man
wears on his penis while having sex. The bag traps
the man’s sperm so it cannot get into the woman’s
vagina or womb.
Unfortunately, some men do not like to wear a
condom during sex because they say it reduces their
sexual pleasure. This is too bad, because condoms work
well to prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted
infections (STIs).
Lubricant can make sex feel better for both the woman and the man. It can also keep
the condom from breaking. Use a water-based lubricant like saliva (spit), K-Y Jelly, or
spermicide. Do not use oils, petroleum jelly (Vaseline), skin lotions, or butter as they
can make the condom leak or break. A drop of lubricant inside the tip of the condom
makes it more comfortable on the penis. A little lubricant can also be rubbed on the
outside of the condom after the man puts it on. This can make sexual intercourse more
comfortable for the man’s partner.
The most effective condoms are made from
latex or polyurethane—not sheepskin.
A new condom must be used each time a
couple has sex.
Condoms can be used alone or along
with any other family planning method,
except the condom for women. They
can be bought at many pharmacies
and markets, and are often available
at health posts and through HIV/AIDS
prevention programs.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007