Birth Control - Cervical barriers / Sponge

Cervical barriers (such as diaphragms) are inserted into the vagina to block sperm from getting into the uterus. They are only effective when used with spermicide and need to be left in for 6-8 hours after use. They are not as effective as condoms (90% instead of 99.9%) and as with every other method, their effectiveness will decrease if not used correctly. It will not protect against STDs.

Sponges are quite literally round sponges soaked in different spermicides. They are 75%-90% effective if used correctly and provide minimal protection against STDs.

Sponges cannot be reused, though most cervical barriers can be. Some cervical barriers will have to be custom fitted.