ABSTRACT
BARRIER METHODS Barrier methods are not yet out of fashion! In spite of wellknown disadvantages, they all (above all condoms) can provide useful protection against STIs. All users of this type of method should be informed about EC, in case of lack of use or failure in use. Guidance documents are available, see www.fsrh.org
Vegetable-and oil-based lubricants, and the bases for many prescribable vaginal products, can seriously damage and lead to rupture of rubber: baby oil destroys up to 95% of a condom’s strength within 15 minutes. Beware of ad hoc use of, or contamination by, substances from the kitchen or bathroom cupboard! The box on p. 157 lists some common vaginal preparations that should be regarded as unsafe to use with rubber condoms and diaphragms-but it is not a complete list. Water-based products such as KY Jelly, and also glycerine and silicone lubricants, do not harm latex, but all oils and creams should be regarded as suspect.
