Barrier Contraceptives Overview
Technically speaking, barrier methods comprise several categories of contraceptive options. They include the common male barrier, the male condom. They also include a variety of female vaginal barriers, including the diaphragm, cervical cap, contraceptive sponge, and female condom. Vaginal spermicides, in the various forms of suppositories, creams, jellies, films, and foams also are usually included in this category. They are not truly barriers but act in conjunction with barriers to increase effectiveness. They also can be used on their own. These spermicides are not discussed in detail in this chapter.
With the exception of the vaginal diaphragm and cervical cap, these methods are available over the counter. This benefit provides patients with the opportunity to use these methods without provider assistance. This benefit alone is reason enough for all patients to be proficient with one of these methods despite a possible preference for another method that has been prescribed. Any woman who has traveled and forgotten her oral contraceptives will be happy to have been previously educated in the use of condoms and spermicides.
Condoms are superior for prevention of the transmission of some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is reason enough for educating patients in proper usage. Nurses should familiarize themselves with instructing patients on when and how to use a condom. If you are unfamiliar with the techniques of this method, excellent instructions can be found in Contraceptive Technology, 20th edition (Hatcher, Trussell, Stewart, et al., 2012).
» BASIC TRIAGE ASSESSMENT FORM FOR BARRIER CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS
Which method do you use? _________________________________________________
Do you also use a spermicide with this method? ___________________________
Are you satisfied with this method? ______________________________________
Are you having any problems or concerns in using this method? ____________
Do you rely on this method for your primary mode of contraception, or do you use it as an adjunct for STI protection? __________________________________________________
REFERENCE
Hatcher, R. A., Trussell, J., Nelson, A., Cates, Jr., W., Kowal, D., & Pollicar, M. (2012). Contraceptive technology (20th ed.). New York, NY: Ardent Media.
Allergy to Latex
» Key Questions
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» Actions
STEP A: Using a Latex-Based Contraceptive
Some patients develop an allergic reaction to a latex method of contraception. However, some vaginal infections may mimic an allergic reaction.
Proceed to Steps B and C for appropriate questions to ask when a latex allergy is suspected.
STEP B: Wheezing or Shortness of Breath
If the patient has used a vaginal barrier made of latex and is experiencing systemic symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing, she or her agent should call 911 or seek emergency care immediately.
Advise the patient not to drive herself to the emergency room (ER).
Patients with a latex allergy should obtain and wear a medical alert bracelet.
STEP C: Symptoms of Vaginitis
Certain types of vaginitis can mimic allergic symptoms in some women. Instruct the patient to come in for evaluation within 3 to 5 days or sooner if symptoms are intolerable.
Instruct the patient to avoid using over-the-counter (OTC) products until a diagnosis is made.
Instruct the patient to avoid using the latex method of contraception until a definitive diagnosis is made by the provider.
Broken Female Condom
» Key Questions
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