Condoms and Spermicides

CONDOMS

Condoms are a barrier method used in preventing pregnancy. Most condoms are made of latex, although some are made from lambskin. They fit over the penis and hold or catch sperm, preventing it from entering the woman's body and fertilzing an egg.

Effectiveness

Using a condom correctly directly effects how well they will work in preventing pregnancy. When used correctly during every act of intercourse, the chances of pregnancy are low (approximately 3%). If you choose not to use a condom, your chance of unwanted pregancy increase greatly (to about 10-12%). Using condoms in conjuction with birth control, spermicides or gels, decreases risk of prenancy to about 1%. Condoms, like other methods of birth control are never 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Latex condoms also help in the prevention of STD's, including HIV and AIDS. If you are sexually active and may be at risk of contracting an STD (i.e you are not in a secure, monogamous relationship or have multipe partners), the use of condoms is imperative to your sexual health and well being.

Using a Condom

• Condoms usually come rolled up in a small package. Unroll the condom ONTO the erect penis all the way to the base.
• Pinch the tip to keep air out, and leave about 1/2 inch of room at the tip to catch the semen. If there is not space at the tip, the condom may break. 
• Handle the condom carefully so that it does not tear or puncture.
• The condom should be put on before there is any skin to skin contact. Any semen that is released from the penis before intercourse still contains sperm and can cause pregnancy.
• After intercourse, the man should remove his penis from the vagina immediately. Hold the base of the condom securely when removing it so that no semen spills out.
• Always throw condoms away, NEVER USE A CONDOM MORE THAN ONCE!
• A couple may use water-based lubricants during intercourse (KY Jelly, contraceptive foam, etc), but never use vaseline, hand lotion, or anything oil-based. This is unsanitary and can weaken the latex.
• Condoms should be kept in a cool, dry, place as heat can ruin them. Never keep condoms in a wallet or glove compartment.
• A couple may want to experiment with several "types" of condoms before they find one that works for them, or helps them to better enjoy their sexual experience while still being safe from unwanted pregnancy.

Advantages

• Inexpensive
• Easy to use
• No side effects (unless allergic to latex)
• No need for a doctor visit or prescription
• Effective in prevention of STD's including chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, HIV, and gonorrhea
• Provide a way for the man to share in the responsibility of birth control

Disadvantages

• Some people complain that condoms reduce sensation
• Some people complain about stopping intercourse to put on a condom
• May be inefficient for people with latex allergies (need to use lambskin condoms instead)

Can A Woman Still Get Pregnant if a Condom is Used?

Risk of pregnancy is greatly decreased with the use of condoms, however, no method of birth control is 100% effective. A woman is at risk for pregnancy if:

• Condoms are not used correctly
• A condom breaks or tears
• The penis is removed carelessly from the vagina and semen spills out
• A condom is not used or a couple does not want to stop sexual foreplay to put on a condom
• A condom comes off during intercourse

If a condom breaks, tears, or comes off during intercourse, and you are not using an alternate method of birth control, call AWC or your local clinic and talk to someone about Emergency Contraception. Emergency Contraception Pills are higly effective in preventing pregnancy if taken within 72 hours or unprotected intercourse.

SPERMICIDE (VCF)

What is Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)?

Vaginal Contraceptive film, or VCF, is a very thin square of material that dissolves inside the vagina, releasing nonoxylnol-9, or powerful spermicide.

Effectiveness

VCF is approximately 94% effective with perfect use, that is, when used according to instructions for every act of intercourse, even during a period. Any lapse in perfect use increases the chance of pregnancy. One way to increase the effectiveness of VCF is to use it with condoms.

Spermicides do not provide protection from STD's. However, studies have shown that they may increase the effectiveness of condoms in preventing infection. If you are at risk of exposure to STD's or HIV, use a condom with VCF.

Advantages

Because VCF is easily inserted with your fingers, there is no applicator. Unlike some other spermicides, VCF is not messy and is most likely undetectable by your or your partner. Althouth the initial cost may seem high because VCF is sold in packs, each use costs less than $1.00. A prescription is not needed for VCF or other spermicidal foams or jellies.

Disadvantages

Spermicides do not protect against STD's or HIV. Seldom, VCF can cause vaginal or penile irritation. This may mean that you are sensitive to the ingredient nonocynol-9. If discomfort does occur, discontinue use and look for alternative methods of contraception. If irritation continues, consult your physician.

How to Use VCF

It is important that you insert VCF not less than 15 minutes and not more than one hour before intercourse. VCF must be used for each act of intercourse, even within the same hour.

Remove VCF from the sealed envelope and fold it in half. Make sure your fingers are completely dry, otherwise VCF may stick to them instead of staying in the vagina. If film still sticks to your finger, fold it a third time to make it smaller. With your finger, place VCF high in the vagina against the cervix. VCF should be inserted quickly.