The positive and harmful effects of using a birth control - Research Paper Example

The positive and harmful effects of using a birth control can be best gauged by understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each of the methods of preventing pregnancy. Barrier methods of birth control or contraception are methods that work by physically obstructing the vaginal canal, preventing the sperms from entering the woman’s uterus, thereby inhibiting fertilization. Gordon (2004) avers that the common forms of barrier methods of birth control are male and female condoms, spermicide and diaphragm.

A male condom is a thin, flexible sheath made from latex, polyurethane or lambskin. Worn over an erect penis before intercourse, a male condom is equipped with a small reservoir at the tip which collects the sperms during ejaculation and prevents them from entering the vagina. It is the most easy to use, inexpensive and widely available form of contraceptive with no side effects unless one is allergic to latex. When used correctly and consistently, a male condom has an efficacy rate of 85- 86 percent.

Gordon (2004) avers that the male condom reduces the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. On the flip side, a male condom is often accused of dulling sexual sensations and intruding intimate foreplay. A female condom is about a seven-inch long pouch with two flexible rings at each end. Inserted into the vagina prior to the intercourse, the female condom prevents the cervix, vaginal canal, and the surrounding vaginal skin from coming in contact with the penis or the secretions from the penis.

The use of female condom entails the absence of any side effects except to the women who are allergic to latex. Ease of availability without prescription and potency to mitigate the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases are the advantages of using female condoms. Female condoms are however