Barrier contraceptives and spermicides: Their role in family planning care

Abstract

Barrier contraceptives and spermicides are an important component of family planning programmes, since they are effective and safe, and can be widely distributed through community-based groups and commercial retail outlets, as well as by health workers and clinics. This publication presents the advantages and disadvantages of barrier contraceptives, and provides information of interest to health administrators and planners on the inclusion of these methods in family planning programmes. Emphasis is laid on the important role of barrier contraceptives in making users less dependent on the formal health system, and specific issues that must be taken into account in the planning and administration of programmes are discussed