Which of the following is a barrier method of contraception?

The correct answer is Option (4) → None of these

In barrier methods the ovum and the sperms are kept from meeting physically by a barrier, such as condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps and vaults. The three methods given in the options use no barrier. They are natural methods, which only avoid the chances of the ovum and sperms meeting.

Option (1) Lactational amenorrhoea — Incorrect. Lactational amenorrhoea is a natural method. During intense breast-feeding after parturition, ovulation and the menstrual cycle do not occur, so the chance of conception is almost nil. It works for at most six months.

Option (2) Withdrawal method — Incorrect. In the withdrawal method (coitus interruptus) the male withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation. No barrier is used, so it is a natural method.

Option (3) Periodic abstinence — Incorrect. In periodic abstinence the couple avoids coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle, the fertile period. It too is a natural method.

NCERT Extract:
Population Stabilisation and Birth Control – “… Natural methods work on the principle of avoiding chances of ovum and sperms meeting. Periodic abstinence is one such method in which the couples avoid or abstain from coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle when ovulation could be expected. … Withdrawal or coitus interruptus is another method in which the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation so as to avoid insemination. Lactational amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) method is based on the fact that ovulation and therefore the cycle do not occur during the period of intense lactation following parturition. … In barrier methods, ovum and sperms are prevented from physically meeting with the help of barriers.”