Lea's Shield

Statistics

 *     FDA  Approved: 2  002
 * Duration  : Multi-use
 *   Implementation  :
 *   Effectiveness  : 88% (12/100)
 *   Costs  : $15-$75
 *   STI  Protection: N  one

History
See Diaphragms.

Lea's Shield displaced the cervical cap in 2002 in the marketplace, but has fallen out of favor since then. This is largely because of the skill required to insert it (it needs to be held up by the vaginal walls).

Description
Lea's Shield isn't a very well known type of birth control, but it's a simple one size fits all option. It is composed of slicone rubber, which makes it non-allergenic. Lea's Shield works by covering the user's cervix, although it is still recommended that the woman use spermicide while using this birth control method. Lea's Sheild is held in place by the vaginal wall, which makes it different from a cervical cap or a diaphragm.

To effectively use a Lea's Shield, the user must first fill the "bowl" part with spermicide. Then she must squeeze the sides and insert it as far as it can go. Once the user lets go of the device, the Lea's Shield will open up and will be automatically held in place between the vaginal walls. It includes one way air valves that help "airlock" the device and create a tight seal that won't allow sperm to travel into the cervix.

Effects
With proper use, using a Lea's Shield can be a very effect method of birth control. However, since it's effectiveness largely depends on proper insertion, annual failure rates range from 4-15%. It's a fairly safe method of birth control with no real reported side effects, although about 8.2% of male partners report discomfort while using it.

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