How effective are cervical barriers as protection from STIs/HIV?
Condoms are the only proven method to reduce the risk of STI/HIV infection. However, negotiating condom use remains difficult for many people, especially women and girls. Therefore, there are a number of studies looking at viable alternatives to provide more female-controlled STI/HIV options. Cervical barrier methods have proven contraceptive benefits, and some data suggest that they may also offer some protection against STIs/HIV. See the “Preventing STI/HIV” section of this website for more information on why cervical barriers are being researched as potential female-controlled methods for STI/HIV prevention.
