An internal (female) condom is a thin plastic pouch that is open on one end. The closed end is placed inside the vagina. The condom lines the walls of the vagina and prevents sperm from getting into the vagina. It also protects against STIs. A new condom must be used each time you have sex. When an internal condom is used, about 21 out of 100 people who use it will have an unplanned pregnancy. You can buy internal condoms over the counter.

A diaphragm is a silicone dome with a firm, flexible rim. It fits inside the vagina and covers the opening of the uterus (called the cervix). A diaphragm is always used with spermicide. The diaphragm is put in place no more than 2 hours before having sex. When a diaphragm is used, about 17 out of 100 people who use it will have an unplanned pregnancy. You need a doctor's prescription to get a diaphragm. With good care, it lasts 1 to 2 years.

A cervical cap is a silicone device. It fits inside the vagina, up against the cervix. The cervical cap is always used with a spermicide. You need a doctor's prescription to get a cervical cap. How well the cap works depends on whether you have had a vaginal delivery or not. For people who have had a vaginal delivery and use the cap, about 32 out of 100 will have an unplanned pregnancy. For people who have not had a vaginal delivery, about 16 out of 100 will have an unplanned pregnancy. A cervical cap can last for up to 2 years.

A contraceptive sponge is a plastic foam disc. It fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix. It also releases a spermicide. The sponge is soaked with water and then placed in the vagina. After you place the sponge, you have protection for up to 24 hours. How well the sponge works depends on whether you have had a vaginal delivery or not. For people who have had a vaginal delivery and use the sponge, about 27 out of 100 will have an unplanned pregnancy. For people who have not had a vaginal delivery, about 14 out of 100 will have an unplanned pregnancy. You can buy the sponge over the counter.

A spermicide is a substance that kills sperm or stops sperm from moving. You can buy it as a foam, gel, cream, film, and suppository. Most spermicides come with an applicator. This is filled and put in the vagina about 15 minutes before vaginal sex. More spermicide must be used each time you have sex. Spermicide used alone does not work well to prevent pregnancy. When spermicide is used, about 28 out of 100 people who use it will have an unplanned pregnancy. It works better to use it with an external condom. You can buy spermicide over the counter.