I. Barrier methods 1. Contraceptive sponges They are soft, disc-shaped devices with a ring, with which they are inserted and removed from the vagina. They are made of polyurethane and contain the spermicide nonoxynol 9. The sponge is moistened and placed before sex so that it covers the cervix. The contraceptive effect remains reliable within 24 hours. The sponge should remain in the vagina for 6 hours after sex, but not more than 30 hours after its insertion. Women who develop local hypersensitivity reactions to nonoxynol 9 should not use these contraceptives. 2. Diaphragms, Cervical Caps and Cervical Shields These work by preventing sperm from entering the uterus and fallopian tubes and reaching the egg. The diaphragm is a shallow latex cup, the cervical cap is shaped like a thimble, and the cervical shield is a silicone cup that has a one-way valve that holds it to the cervix. Diaphragms and caps have different sizes, so consultation with a gynecologist is necessary to determine the right one for the particular woman. Shields are only one size. Before sex, a spermicidal gel should be added to them. All devices must remain in the vagina for 6-8 hours after sex to ensure pregnancy prevention. The diaphragm must be removed up to 24 hours after insertion, and the caps or shields – up to 48. 3. Female condom It is inserted into the vagina up to eight hours before sex and is used once. They are made of a thin, flexible polymer material and are coated with a lubricant. Using a female condom makes using a male condom redundant and vice versa. 4. Male condoms Most often, condoms are made of latex or polyurethane. Combining them with a spermicidal product is most effective. Some condoms are factory-lubricated, while others are specially designed for oral sex (they are unlubricated). Using unlubricated condoms for vaginal, or even more so, anal sex, requires the addition of one. Water-based lubricants are preferred, as the oil from oil-based lubricants can partially dissolve the latex and make it easier for the condom to break. Condoms should not be carried in a pocket or purse because heat can break down the latex and make it easier to break! II. Implantable devices 1. Sticks Large as a matchstick, implanted under the skin of the arm. They release progestins that cause changes in the uterine lining and mucus that prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Their effectiveness is preserved for three years. NEWS_MORE_BOX 2. Devices for implantation in the uterus All have the shape of the letter T. They are divided into: Copper devices – release small amounts of copper ions that paralyze sperm. If fertilization does occur, the devices prevent the fertilized egg from implanting in the lining of the uterus.They are placed by a gynecologist and are effective for 5-10 years. Hormonal devices – release progestins into the uterus, which stop the maturation of eggs and change the uterine lining and mucus. They also prevent implantation of the fertilized egg. They are placed by a gynecologist and remain effective for up to 5 years.