Women who are breastfeeding infants and do not desire another pregnancy at that time need to use a reliable form of contraception. Semen is collected inside the condom, which must be carefully maintained in place and then removed after intercourse. Condoms are readily available at low cost in most drug and grocery stores. Some family planning clinics may offer free condoms. About 12 pregnancies occur over 1 year out of 100 couples using this method.
Effectiveness is increased when spermicide is also used.
However, this method used by itself is not very effective. About 21 pregnancies occur over 1 year out of 100 women using this method. It should be left in place for 6 to 8 hours after intercourse. Diaphragms must be prescribed by a woman's health care provider, who determines the appropriate type and size of diaphragm for the individual woman. About 18 pregnancies occur over 1 year in 100 women using this method.