Lea's Shield®
What Is It?
A silicone rubber, reusable, cup-shaped vaginal barrier contraceptive device.
How Does It Work?
- Blocks sperm access to the cervix
- Spermicide kills sperm
How Is It Used?
- Should be used with nonoxynol-9 spermicidal lubricant
- Lea's Shield is placed high in the vagina, sitting over the cervix
- Must be removed sooner than 8 hours after most recent sexual intercourse
Effectiveness:
85% - 91%
Benefits:
- Nonhormonal birth control
- Can be left in place for up to 48 hours. Provides effective contraceptive protection no matter how many times you have intercourse.
- Not affected by oil-based lubricants or vaginal medication
Possible Concerns:
- Requires clinic visit for instruction and prescription
- Must be used with each act of intercourse
- May increase risk of urinary tract infection
- Spermicide use may cause irritation or discomfort
- Frequent spermicide use (> or = 2 times/day) may cause irritation that may increase susceptibility to HIV
NOT PROVEN TO REDUCE THE RISK OF HIV/AIDS OR STDs
