The Shield Essay

400 Words2 Pages
The shield, also known as Lea’s Shield, is a cup-shaped device that fits over the cervix and is held in place by suction and support from the vaginal wall. The shield is washable, reusable, and one size fits all. Based on a study of women using the shield for six months, the overall effectiveness rate is eighty-five percent. Childbirth can alter how this shield fits and may have a higher failure rate in women that have given birth. (Birth Control Guide, pg.1). The shield should be used with contraceptive cream or jelly and must be prescribed by a clinician or doctor. It does not protect against HIV or STD’s. Lea’s Shield can be worn up to 48 hours and may be inserted anytime before intercourse. The device should be left in place after intercourse for at least 8 hours and should be cleaned with mild soap and water, air dried, and stored at room temperature in the case. (Contraception Online, pg.1). With proper use the shield can last around six months until having to be replaced but should be checked for holes, tears, or leaks routinely. (Birth Control Guide, pg.1). Women who have frequent urinary tract infections, have poor vaginal muscle tone, and/or infection may not be suited for the shield. Although rare, there are some side effects associated with the use of the shield. Using the shield may increase the risk for Urinary Tract Infection, Vaginal Infection, and Toxic shock syndrome. Toxic shock syndrome, TSS, is a serious health problem that can occur from bacteria that grows on the shield if it is kept in place for more that twenty-four hours. Warning signs of TSS include sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, sore throat, aching muscles, and rash. (Lea’s Shield Birth Control Device for Women, pg.1). Several advantages of the shield are that it causes few health problems, is comfortable and shouldn’t be felt, and can be inserted up to six hours

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