Contraception - Spermicides/spermicide-containing sponge

Methods
Spermicides are chemicals that are “toxic” to sperm.25
They either kill or inactivate sperm, without harming
either partner. Most contain nonoxynol-9 or
octoxynol-9 as the active ingredient. They can be used
by themselves or in combination with condoms, diaphragms,
or cervical caps.
STI prevention
Spermicides may reduce the risk of acquiring some
sexually transmitted infections but, unfortunately, not HIV. In fact, some experts suggest that the risk of
HIV transmission may increase because of associated
local irritation of genital tissue. A recent report from
South Africa found that women who used vaginal
gel with condoms became infected with HIV at an
approximately 50% higher rate than women who used
a placebo gel.26
Spermicides are available as gels, creams, jellies,
foam, film, and suppositories. Creams may contain a
higher concentration of the active ingredient. No
clinical trials have compared the contraceptive efficacy
of one product to another and choice is usually
dependent on partners’ preferences. Suppositories
and tablets dissolve in less than 30 minutes and
are generally effective for less than 1 hour. Either
partner may develop a hypersensitivity to these
products. Spermicides containing at least 70 mg
nonoxynol-9 per dose proved more effective than
those containing less. There were no statistical differences
in pregnancy rates comparing the gel, film
and suppository at doses of at least 70 mg; pregnancy
was more likely at the lowest does. There were no
differences in patient acceptability among the five
formulations tested.27
Sponge
The Today® Sponge provides a physical barrier that
contains spermicide and provides protection for 24
continuous hours. Made of polyurethane, sponges
should be moistened with at least two tablespoons of
water prior to insertion. They should be left in place
at least 6 hours following the last act of intercourse
and not worn for more than 30 continuous hours.
It is more effective in nulliparous than in parous
women. See http://www.todaysponge.com/index.html
for marketing information.

Posted in: Contraception,Health