Barrier methods are less effective than hormonal methods, but cause fewer side effects and are associated with less risk. The effectiveness of barrier forms of contraception can be increased when used with spermicide.

Male Condom

The male condom is a thin sheath that is placed over an erect penis to keep sperm from entering a woman's body. A new condom must be used every time you have sex. Condoms can be made of latex, polyurethane, or "natural/lambskin."

Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, provide the best available means of reducing the risk of transmission of many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV and trichomoniasis. Condoms also can reduce the risk of genital herpes, syphilis, chancroid, and human papillomavirus infection, but only when the infected areas are covered or protected by the condom, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those made of lambskin, however, do not offer such protection because they have microscopic holes that may stop sperm, but are large enough to allow viruses to pass through.

Condoms are either:

• Lubricated, which can make sexual intercourse more comfortable.
• Non-lubricated, which can also be used for oral sex. It is best to add lubrication to non-lubricated condoms if you use them for vaginal or anal sex. You can use a water-based lubricant, such as K-Y jelly. Oil-based lubricants like massage oils, baby oil, lotions, or petroleum jelly will weaken the condom, causing it to tear or break.

Keep condoms in a cool, dry place. If you keep them in a hot place (like a wallet or glove compartment), the latex breaks down increasing the likelihood that the condom will tear or break.

Female Condom

The FDA approved the female condom in 1993. It is a soft, thin, polyurethane sheath with two flexible rings, one that contains the closed end of the sheath and is inserted into the vagina. The other ring stays outside the vagina.

The female condom can be inserted up to 8 hours before having sex.  Use a new condom each time you have intercourse. And don't use it and a male condom at the same time.

Spermicide
Spermicides are nonprescription, non-hormonal chemical products containing the active ingredient nonoxynol-9 (N-9) or octoxynol-9 (0-9). They can be used alone or in combination with other barrier contraceptives. Spermicides are available as foam, cream, gel, suppository and film, and, when used with other barrier contraceptives, are more effective than either method used alone.