The Shield
(Lea’s Shield)
What is the shield?
The shield is a soft silicone cup with a loop to aid in its removal. It fits snugly over the cervix and is used with spermicidal jelly or cream. The shield and the spermicide work together. The shield keeps sperm from moving past the cervix; the spermicide prevents sperm from moving toward the egg. Among 100 typical couples who use the shield, 15 women will accidentally get pregnant within a year. [There are no rates for perfect use.] Users can increase the effectiveness of the shield by making sure the cervix is covered and by using spermicide. For protection against STIs, couples should also use condoms.
What are the advantages of the shield?
- Can be used by women who are breastfeeding;
- Can be easily carried in a pocket or a purse;
- Cannot usually be felt by either partner;
- Is immediately effective;
- Is immediately reversible;
- Has no effect on your natural hormones;
- Can be inserted several hours ahead of time.
What are the disadvantages?
- It provides no protection against HIV and other STIs. Frequent daily use of spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can irritate the vagina, increasing your risk for HIV and some other STIs. Use a latex condom to reduce the risk of infection.
- You must visit a clinician or clinic to get a prescription for a shield.
- It can be difficult to insert properly and may sometimes be difficult to remove.
- It may be pushed out of place during sexual activity.
- It causes some women pain or discomfort.
- Some women are allergic to silicone. Some women or their partners are allergic to spermicide.
- You may not be able to use the shield if you have frequent urinary tract infections or if you have a reproductive tract infection.
- You must not use the shield during your period.
How do I get the shield?
You can get the shield, or a prescription for it, from a clinician or family planning or local health department clinic. You can get more information about this contraceptive method from your regular doctor or nurse practitioner, family planning clinic, and/or the patient insert accompanying the shield.
Additional Information >> Contraceptive Choices
Chart Comparing the Effectiveness of Various Methods :: Contraceptive
Myths & Facts :: Local Clinics & Hotlines
 Send this page to a friend >>
|
