Barrier Methods AudioHealth Library Topic 2600 Barrier Methods Birth control is a very personal matter for you and your partner. It is important to know the facts about different birth control methods before making a decision about contraception. Barrier methods are among the most effective forms of birth control that can be easily discontinued when pregnancy is desired. A condom works by catching and containing sperm before it enters the woman's reproductive system through the vagina. A condom is placed on the penis after it becomes erect but before intercourse begins.
Condoms are inexpensive and are available without a doctor's prescription.
They can be bought in any drug store and many grocery stores. Only latex condoms help protect against sexually transmitted diseases. When used according to package instructions, condoms are effective in preventing pregnancy eighty-eight to ninety percent of the time. The primary disadvantage of condoms is they sometimes break during intercourse or removal. This is also the primary cause of condom failure.