Among the many ways of preventing pregnancy are the products known as barrier contraceptives: cervical caps, female condoms, male condoms, diaphragms, and vaginal spermicides. Barriers work by preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.
Sterilization, although not a product, also prevents sperm from reaching the egg. The procedures for sterilization are called a vasectomy (for men) and tubal ligation (for women).
The table below demonstrates the efficacy of each type of barrier method.
| Barrier Method | Use Effectiveness Actual Use | Theoretical Effectiveness Perfect Use |
|---|---|---|
| DIAPHRAGM & SPERMICIDE | 84% | 94% |
| SPERMICIDE & MALE CONDOMS** | no confirmed data | 99% |
| FEMALE CONDOM ALONE | 79% | 95% |
| MALE CONDOM ALONE | 85% | 98% |
| SPERMICIDES*** | 71% | 82% |
| TUBAL LIGATION | 99.5% | 99.5% |
| VASECTOMY | 99.85% | 99.9% |
**Separate spermicide in addition to condoms.
***Foams, creams, gels, vaginal suppositories, and vaginal film.
Reviewed by Danielle Chard, RN, BSc Nursing, Director of Clinic Services
