CASE STUDIES

Case Studies

Case Studies

Summary of the Case

In the first case study, the patient needs different contraception methods to prevent from pregnancy. To understand how barrier methods work, you should know what happens during reproduction. A woman has two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus. Each month, one of the ovaries releases an egg into a fallopian tube. This is called ovulation. In most women it occurs about 12-14 days before the start of the menstrual period. A woman can get pregnant if she has sex around the time of ovulation. During sex, the man ejaculates sperm into the vagina. The sperm travel up through the cervix and the uterus and into the fallopian tubes.

Age & Gender

If a sperm meets an egg in the fallopian tube, fertilization—union of egg and sperm—can occur. The fertilized egg then moves down the fallopian tube and attaches to the uterus where it grows into a fetus. Barrier methods are safe and effective ways to prevent pregnancy. There are several types of barrier methods.

Health Issue

The types of barrier methods used today in the United States include:

Spermicides

Condoms (male and female)

Diaphragm

Cervical cap

Spermicides are chemical barriers. The other methods are physical barriers. Combining chemical and physical barriers—such as spermicides and a diaphragm—provides more protection.

Barrier methods are not as effective at preventing pregnancy as some other birth control methods, such as birth control pills or the intrauterine device (IUD). However, when two barrier methods are used together (such as a diaphragm and a condom), they become highly effective.

Most of the time, barrier methods have no side effects on other systems in your body. However, if you or your partner are allergic to latex, do not use a barrier method that contains latex (rubber). It may cause a reaction in your body.

Barrier methods work best when used the correct way every time you have sex (Table 1). Even one act of sex without birth control can result in pregnancy. If your barrier method breaks or becomes dislodged during sex, you may want to consider emergency contraception.

Examination

Spermicides are chemical barrier methods that include tablets, foam, cream, jelly, and film (thin sheets that contain spermicide). Spermicides contain a chemical that kills sperm or makes them not active so they cannot pass through the woman's cervix. Before each act of sex, spermicides are placed in the vagina, close to the cervix. Films and tablets must be placed in the vagina 10-30 minutes before sex. They require time to melt and become active.

Spermicides are easy to use. They are sold at a low cost and can be bought over-the-counter. Spermicide must be reapplied for each act of sex. Be sure to follow the instructions supplied with the product. Use the applicator that comes with it.

Spermicides are most effective when used with another barrier method, such as a condom. Spermicides are not linked to any increased risk of birth defects if you become pregnant.

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