What are spermicides?

Spermicides are a birth control method for women that contain sperm killing chemical products (like nonoxynol-9).  Spermicides must be used with caution; most of them should be used only for a short period of time before they loose their efficacy. It is better to add another barrier method such as a condom, a diaphragm or a cervical cap.  There are many types of spermicides: foam, film, sponge, cream and vaginal suppository.

Spermicides used alone are effective from 65% to 85%.  However, when they are complemented by a barrier method, there efficacy increases to 95%.

Precautions 

• Even if they have antibacterial properties, spermicides do not protect you against all sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).  Moreover, spermicides are not effective enough to be used alone to prevent pregnancy.
• When using spermicides, make sure it contains nonoxynol-9 as an active ingredient. It is the ingredient responsible for the neutralization of sperm.
• Some women are allergic to spermicides
• Women who have been diagnosed with uterine cancer should not use spermicides.

How much does it cost?

Spermicides are easily available over the counter in drug stores.  They cost anywhere from $6 to $25 per pack.

How to use them and practical tips?

Using spermicides

• Foam, gel and creams:  They must be applied less than 20 minutes before having sex.  An applicator or dispenser is usually needed to apply these types of spermicides.  You must first fill the applicator, then insert it into the vagina all the way to the cervix, pull back about 1cm and then release the spermicide from the applicator.  A new dose is needed before each sexual relationship.
• Sponge types:  A sponge spermicide must be wet and wrung-out first so that it becomes soapy.  You then insert it into the vagina with your fingers all the way to the cervix.  The sponge must stay in at leas 6 hours after the last sexual relationship.  Sponge spermicides are effective for up to 24 hours after insertion.
• Film:  A film spermicide looks like a small translucent sheet of approximately 1 square inch.  Your hands must be dry and clean before you handle it, otherwise it might melt in your hands.  Apply by folding it and inserting it into the vagina.  This type of spermicide is less messy than the other ones and just as effective.
• Suppository:   A suppository spermicide must be inserted in the vagina all the way to the cervix.  You have to wait about 15 min minutes for the suppository to dissolve before having sex..  You must wait at least 8 hours after a sexual relationship before you wash yourself with soap.
• Certain spermicides have a bad taste and don’t have a very pleasant smell.  Try different kinds to find the one that suits you and your partner.

What are the Pros and Cons?

The Pros:

• Spermicides are usually affordable.
• They are easy to use.
• They can serve as both lubricant and contraceptive method
• They are available over the counter in any drug store

The Cons:

• They are not very effective if used alone
• Spermicides must be applied correctly, immediately before each sexual relationship, which can negatively affect the romantic mood…
• Except for the film spermicide, the others can be messy.
• Some spermicides taste bad and can affect the pleasure of oral sex.  Try different brands to find one that you and your partner like.
• Some spermicides can create minor numbness.
• Spermicides can cause allergic reactions or rashes on the inside of the vagina or at the extremity of the penis.  In the event of an intense reaction, you should stop using them.
• Spermicides can cause urinary tract infections.
• A pre-existing vaginal infection can reduce the effectiveness of the product.

Complications

Because of the chemicals, there is a risk of toxic shock syndrome--a generalized blood infection--with spermicides.

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Website developped and offered by the Canadian Association for Adolescent Health
Last modification: 2006-02-03