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  • Title: [Contraceptive methods].
    Author: Cotton S.
    Journal: Soins Gynecol Obstet Pueric Pediatr; 1993 Feb; (141):12-4. PubMed ID: 8278883.
    Abstract:
    A high quality contraceptive method should be safe for the user and the child born in case of failure, reversible, acceptable to the couple, effective, and affordable. Withdrawal is safe and reversible, but its acceptability is questionable for many couples and its effectiveness is relatively low. It permits male participation and remains widely used in France, especially among stable older couples. The calendar rhythm method requires abstinence in the middle of the cycle, a time of increased desire for many women. It is relatively effective if cycles are regular and the full period of abstinence is observed. The temperature rhythm method requires taking the temperature every day before rising, preferably at the same time and with the same thermometer each day. This method does not permit intercourse in the first part of the cycle and imposes a wait of three days after the temperature shift. Efficacy is good if all the rules of the method are scrupulously followed, but around 20% of women have uninterpretable thermal curves. The method may be acceptable for couples who can tolerate its constraints and who lead stable lives without night work. The Billings or cervical mucus method requires daily evaluation of the consistency, color, and dampness of the cervical mucus. Its constraints are similar to those of the other periodic abstinence methods. Condoms are quite effective if correctly and consistently used. Numerous campaigns are currently underway to increase their use, especially among young people, because they are the only means at present of preventing sexual transmission of HIV. Diaphragms and cervical caps require physical examinations to determine the correct size. They are effective, but not acceptable to many women who are reluctant to manipulate the genital area. Vaginal spermicides of different kinds also require touching the genitalia and their odor may be bothersome. But spermicides are an appropriate method for women with sporadic sex lives and for postpartum use. They also provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
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