How many days can sperm survive in the female genital tract?
- Sperm can survive 7 days in the female genital tract
- ovum is fertile (able to be fertilised by the sperm) for up to 24 hours after the release
- so if sperm can survive 7 days → fertile period is 7 days before ovulation and one day after
What’s the Pearl Index?
The number (%) of unintended pregnancies in the first year of use of contraception
Which method of barrier contraception provides the greatest protection against STIs?
Male condom
What is the only condition that may contraindicate use of a male condom?
Latex allergy
May use polyurethane condoms instead!
Name (4) types of barrier contraception
- male condoms
- female condoms
- diaphragm
- cervical cap
How to use a female condom (Femidom)?
- It has two rings either end
- the end with the small ring should be inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse
- the large ring at the other end should cover the area around the vagina and the penis should be inserted into it
- Femidoms also protect both partners against STIs
Advantages of male condom use
- Not contraindicated by any condition (exception latex allergy → other materials (such as polyurethane) used instead
- it is the only contraceptive method mentioned that is controlled by the male, which may be desirable by the couple
- widely available and simple to use
- are protective against many STIs
Disadvantages of male condom use
- can be seen as an interruption to sex
- Sperm can still enter the vagina even with the use of a condom in situations:
- The condom splits
- The wrong size is used
- Too much or too little lubricant is used
- If the penis touches the vagina before a condom is used (pre-ejaculation fluid can contain sperm)
Advantages of female condom use
- No contraindications
- Less likely to tear than the male condom.
- May protect against some STIs
- Can be inserted up to 8 hours before intercourse
Disadvantages of female condom use
- Perfect use is rarely achieved – may become dislodged
- couple may lack motivation to use them every time
- Penis may be inserted between condom and vaginal wall
- Can be noisy and/or uncomfortable for the woman during intercourse
How to use a diaphragm?
- The cervical cap fits over the cervix and the latex dome of the diaphragm holds it between the pubic bone and the sacral curve, covering the cervix
- must be inserted into the vagina before sexual intercourse and must remain in situ for at least 6 hours afterwards (no longer than 24 hours)
What could be used in combination with a diaphragm?
- a spermicide containing nonoxynol-9 which attacks the acrosomal membranes of the sperm, immobilising them
- it is now not recommended as nonoxynol can damage the vaginal epithelium
How is cervical cap used?
- sit directly over the cervix
- held in place by suction and vaginal tone
- often combined with spermicide to increase their efficiency
Cervical cap vs diaphragm
Caps and diaphragms have both the same advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of diaphragm/cap
- 92-96% effective with perfect use
- Only has to be used during sex
- No serious health risks
When can we insert diaphragm/ cap?
3 hours before intercourse
Disadvantages of cap/diaphragm use
- Perfect use is rarely achieved – may tear
- couple may lack motivation to use them every time
- require prior planning and careful insertion
- require measuring and fitting to find the correct size – any weight gain or pregnancy mandates a refitting
- associated with a higher risk of UTIs
- Most likely due to the position of the diaphragm/cap putting pressure on the urethra
- STI transmission is not reduced
