A thin rubber or plastic sheath placed over the erect PENIS before sexual intercourse. It is the most e?ective type of barrier contraception and is also valuable in preventing the transfer between sexual partners of pathogenic organisms such as gonococci, which cause GONORRHOEA, and human immuno-de?ciency virus, which may lead to AIDS (see AIDS/HIV). Sheaths are most e?ective when properly used and with spermicides.
The female condom might be suitable for contraception when a woman misses a day or two of her contraceptive pill; if there is DYSPAREUNIA; when the perineum needs protection, for example, after childbirth; or in cases of latex allergy to traditional condoms. Used properly with spermicide, it provides an e?ective barrier both to infections and to spermatozoa. Failure may result if the penis goes alongside the condom, if it gets pushed up into the vagina, or if it falls out. (See CONTRACEPTION.)... condom
The control of fertility to prevent pregnancy. Methods prevent ovulation in the woman, stop sperm from meeting an ovum in the fallopian tube (preventing fertilization), or prevent a fertilized ovum implanting in the uterus.
Methods of contraception include total or periodic abstinence from sexual intercourse (see contraception, natural methods of); barrier methods (see contraception, barrier methods of); coitus.
The male condom is one of the most widely used barrier contraceptives. Female condoms (see condom, female) are similar to, but larger than, male condoms. Other female barrier methods include the diaphragm (see diaphragm, contraceptive), a hemispherical dome of thin rubber with a metal spring in the rim to hold it in place against the vaginal wall, blocking the entrance to the cervix. It is used with a spermicide. A cervical cap (see cap, cervical) is an alternative to the diaphragm. The contraceptive sponge, which is a disposable, circular, polyurethane foam sponge impregnated with spermicide, is inserted high in the vagina and left in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse.
Spermicides, in the form of aerosol foams, creams, gels, and pessaries, are placed in the vagina as close as possible to the cervix shortly before intercourse.
Some spermicides should not be used with rubber barrier devices.
Mechanical and chemical means used together correctly can be highly effective in preventing conception.... contraception
An intense irritation or tickling sensation in the skin. Generalized itching may result from excessive bathing, which removes the skin’s natural oils and may leave the skin excessively dry. Some people experience general itching after taking certain drugs. Many elderly people suffer from dry, itchy skin, especially on their backs. Itching commonly occurs during pregnancy.
Many skin conditions, including chickenpox, urticaria (nettle rash), and eczema, produce an itchy rash. Generalized skin itchiness can be a result of diabetes mellitus, kidney failure, jaundice, and thyroid disorders.
Pruritus ani (itching around the anal region) occurs with haemorrhoids and anal fissure. Threadworm infestation is the most likely cause of anal itching in children. Pruritus vulvae (itching of the external genitalia in women) may be due to candidiasis, hormonal changes, or to use of spermicides or vaginal ointments and deodorants. Insect bites, lice, and scabies infestations cause intense itching.
Specific treatment for itching depends on the underlying cause. Cooling lotions, such as calamine, relieve irritation; emollients reduce dryness.... itching
n. an agent that kills spermatozoa. Creams and jellies containing chemical spermicides are used – in conjunction with a *diaphragm – as contraceptives. —spermicidal adj.... spermicide
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