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Sexual Health Centre
Birth Control |
Cervical Barriers
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Cervical barriers,
like the cervical cap shown here, should be used with
a spermicide. |
Cervical barriers are used to
block the narrow entrance of the cervix, preventing sperm from entering
the uterus. These devices must be combined with spermicidal creams or jellies
to prevent pregnancy. Cervical barriers should be left in place for six
to eight hours after intercourse to be effective. They are 80 to 90 percent
effective against pregnancy but they do not protect you and your partner
against sexually transmitted
infections. Cervical barriers are a useful solution for women who have
sex two or three times a week or less, they are probably not a good solution
for women who have frequent intercourse.
There is one type of cervical
barrier (i.e., diaphragms). You
may not
be able to use this method if you have:
- a cervical
laceration
- an infection in your cervix
or vagina
- an inflammation of the ovaries
or fallopian tubes
- physical abnormalities of
the cervix of vagina
The first two conditions are
temporary. After successful treatment you can use a cervical barrier.
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