Birth Control Method
Prescription Barrier Method
Description
Lea's Shield is a dome-shaped disk with a valve and a loop made of silicone rubber. It is washable and reusable.
How It Works
To use the shield, apply spermicide and insert the shield according to package instructions. The shield is held in place by the vaginal walls, creating a physical barrier. It covers the cervix and upper vagina, blocking sperm from entering.
Should You Use It?
Lea's Shield can be used by women who can't take the Pill, nursing mothers, and women who do not want to use hormonal birth control methods. It may be used as a back-up method for women who forget to take a pill.
Effectiveness
There is a failure rate of 15 pregnancies per year for every 100 women using this device.
STI Protection
Barrier methods may provide some protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia and certain pre-cancerous conditions of the cervix; however the shield does not prevent the transmission of many other STIs, including herpes, HPV or HIV. Women who frequently use spermicides may experience disruption in the vaginal skin, increasing the risk of STIs and abnormal pap results.
Advantages
- Small, portable and inexpensive.
- The shield is washable and reusable, and does not need to be custom fit.
- Can be left in place for up to 48 hours, with additional spermicide used for subsequent acts of intercourse.
- Confidential -- your partner doesn't have to know you're using it.
- Teaches women more about their anatomy.
- Reliable form of contraception when used correctly and consistently.
Disadvantages
- Available by prescription only.
- Some women experience skin irritation and spotting when using this method.
- May increase the risk for urinary tract infection, toxic shock syndrome, vaginal infection or inflammation of the cervix.
- The spermicide can make performing oral sex on the wearer unsavory.
Where to Buy It
Lea's Shield is available in the United States by prescription only.
Follow Up
Remember to wash the shield thoroughly between uses, using mild soap and water. Once dry, the shield should be properly stored in its pouch. It should be replaced if it shows any signs of wear.
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