Other reversible methods potx

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BARRIER METHODS

Barrier methods are not yet out of fashion! In spite of well-known

disadvantages, they all (notably condoms) provide useful protec￾tion against STIs. All users of this type of method should be

informed about EC, in case of lack of use or failure in use.

Vegetable- and oil-based lubricants, and the bases for many

prescribable vaginal products, can seriously damage and lead

to rupture of rubber: baby oil destroys up to 95% of a condom’s

strength within 15 minutes. Beware ad hoc use of, or contami￾nation by, substances from the kitchen or bathroom cupboard!

Water-based products such as KY Jelly, and also glycerine and

silicone lubricants, are not suspect. The box on p. 135 lists some

common vaginal preparations that should be regarded as unsafe

to use with rubber condoms and diaphragms – and there may

be others.

This problem does not affect plastic condoms such as Avanti and

Ez-On (see below). However, there is no evidence that either of

these is any less likely to rupture for mechanical reasons.

Other reversible methods*

*Male and female sterilization – especially the former, which is more effective –

are useful options for some couples, but are not within the remit of this particular

book.

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