Additional Birth Control Options

Data derived from Bedsider.

Discussions about birth control options should also include additional barrier methods, such as condoms, which are effective when used properly every time.

Some options are more effective when used with spermicide, including internal condom, cervical cap and diaphragm. It should be noted that a cervical cap requires a fitting and must be placed every time. Similarly, a diaphragm must also be placed every time. Whereas Caya (Kessel medintim GmbH) is a one-size-fits all-option, Milex (Cooper Surgical) requires a fitting.

A birth control sponge is another method that must be placed every time, though effectiveness wanes after having a child.

Finally, the withdrawal or pull-out method can be effective. However, it must be done correctly every time. Similarly, the fertility awareness method can also be effective, but only when practiced perfectly and tracked daily.

References:

• Bedsider. Birth control patch. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/sponge. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Birth control sponge. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/sponge. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Cervical cap. https://www.bedsider.org/methods/cervical_cap. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Condom. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/condom. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Diaphragm. https://www.bedsider.org/methods/diaphragm. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Fertility awareness. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/fertility_awareness. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Internal condom. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/internal_condom. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.
• Bedsider. Withdrawal. https://www.bedsider.org/birth-control/withdrawal. Accessed Feb. 1, 2024.

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