The vaginal contraceptive diaphragm and the condom--a reevaluation and comparison of two barrier methods with the...

The use-effectiveness and continuation rates of two barrier methods of contraception, the diaphragm and condom, were studied during a two-year follow-up in a group of 85 and 98 women, respectively. All were highly motivated. Results were compared to a group of 64 women using the periodic abstinence or rhythm method, i.e. not using any contraceptive. The patients selected the method of contraception they preferred and were instructed in their proper use. Results showed good continuation rates in the groups using a diaphragm and the condom for 2 years, for a total follow-up of 5570 cycles. Pregnancy rate after 24 months of use, as calculated by Pearl's formula, was 2.48 for the diaphragm, 3.21 for the condom, and 5.19 in the rhythm group. No serious side effects or complications occurred in either group. The study demonstrated a fair acceptability and use-effectiveness for barrier contraceptive. We suggest that these harmless and complication-free methods may still be reasonable alternatives for the "modern" methods, the pill and the IUD.