BARRIER METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION

Barrier methods of contraception are among the oldest techniques of pregnancy prevention; their use dates back to ancient times. In the early twentieth century, barrier methods provided the only means of contraception for many women. More recently, their use has declined. In the 1995 National Survey of Family Growth, the use of female-controlled methods of barrier contraception was at its lowest rate ever. 29Nevertheless, one can argue that owing to the current high rates of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), barrier contraceptives with their dual role of pregnancy and STD prevention are exceedingly important.