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| Basic Information |
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| Description |
- The goal of contraception (or birth control) is to prevent an unplanned
pregnancy. The majority of methods of contraception enable sexually active
couples to temporarily avoid pregnancy. Permanent birth control is accomplished
through sterilization. Be sure you know and understand the different types
of birth control available to you, the risks and benefits of each, and any
side effects, so that you can make an informed choice.
- The vaginal spermicide (in various forms) is a chemical compound that contains
one ingredient that kills sperm and another that provides a harmless base
to carry the spermicidal agent. The base material is heavy and and offers
added protection by blocking the opening into the cervix. The choice between
a foam, jelly, cream, tablet, or suppository will generally depend on personal
preference. Most studies reveal that the tablets and suppositories are not
as effective as other forms of chemical barriers. Foams are probably the most
effective since they spread more evenly to coat the vagina and cervix.
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| Advantages |
- The effectiveness for birth control ranges from 79 to 97%.
- Do not involve the hormones used in some other forms of birth control that
can have side effects.
- Inexpensive and easily obtainable.
- Do not require a prescription.
- Do provide some degree of lubrication that is helpful for some couples during
sexual intercourse.
- Do not interfere with sensation during sex (as a condom does).
- There is nothing to remove later.
- Can be used as a supplement to other methods of birth control (male and
female condoms; diaphragms).
- Easily transported.
- May be used when needed.
- Offer some protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
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| Disadvantages |
- Not 100% effective for birth control.
- Some of the products may not fully dissolve in the vagina and can cause
friction during sexual intercourse.
- The product must be applied before intercourse and left in the vaginal tract
for at least 6 hours afterward (you cannot bathe or shower).
- Some people have minor allergic reaction or irritation to the products;
switching brands may help.
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| Treatment/Post Procedure Care |
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| General Measures Instructions for Use |
- Fill the applicator with the product to be used. Current products available
use either nonoxynol 9 or octoxynol 3 as the spermicidal agent.
- Gently insert the applicator as far up into the vagina as you can make it
go. This will be easier to do if you lie on your back.
- Depress the plunger or squeeze the tube. If an aerosol foam product is used,
shake can vigorously before use to ensure an even distribution of the spermicidal
chemical.
- Do not apply the product sooner than one hour before intercourse. You need
not wait longer than two or three minutes after the application (except for
suppositories which take ten minutes to melt) before starting intercourse.
- Wait at least six hours after intercourse before showering or bathing, or
eight hours for douching, if desired.
- For proper use, always follow the directions that come with each particular
product if they vary from these instructions.
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| Medication |
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No restrictions.
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| Notify Your Healthcare Provider If |
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You are interested in using a spermicide for contraception and need additional
information.
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