Thank you for reaching out to us. First, it's important to be aware that no method of contraception is 100% effective, and the most highly effective methods are long-term. Learn more about contraceptive efficacy here.

The most halachically accepted form of short-term contraception is spermicide or gel alone. Spermicides can be found in various forms in most pharmacies and are about 79% effective. The newer Phexxi gel is about 86% effective.

The contraceptive sponge, which is about 88% effective in women who have never given birth, can sometimes be found in pharmacies but is not always available. We follow the view that it is halachically permissible when necessary.

The diaphragm with spermicide is halachically permissible, and about 88% effective. However, it needs to be fitted by a physician or a qualified nurse or midwife, so it would probably be difficult to obtain one within the timeframe you need. The one-size Caya diaphragm is about 83% effective. Diaphragms are also typically more expensive than one-time methods.

Condoms (which are about 87% effective) are halachically prohibited except in very extenuating circumstances. They would not be permitted in your situation.

You can find more detailed information about all these methods here.

Please discuss with your physician whether a permissible barrier method would provide sufficient protection. If it would be too great a risk, then you would need to to delay marital relations until after the test is performed.

We hope your testing goes smoothly. You may also find it helpful to consult a Yoetzet Halacha Fertility Counselor as you go through testing and potentially treatment. (This is a free service, details here.)

This response was updated on 27 May, 2026.