Contraception
Contraceptive Methods
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Spermicide
A chemical called nonoxynol-9 comes in the form of cream (only for use with diaphragms), gel, foam, film, or suppository. By inserting spermicide in front of the cervix, in the vagina, it destroys sperm on contact. Spermicides should be used along with another method of contraception, such as a condom, because alone they are not highly effective.
Benefits
Along with protecting against pregnancy, spermicide also protects against bacterial infections and pelvic inflammatory disease. It can also be used as an emergency method, if inserted immediately after you have an accident with your primary contraception.
Disadvantages
Spermicide can be messy. You have to insert spermicide right before sex, because it's usually only effective for one hour. It may irritate the entrance of the vagina or the tip of the penis. Using a spermicide alone can increase your risk of HIV transmission, so only use it with a steady partner. The failure rate of spermicides used alone is between 6% (perfect use) and 21% (typical use).
The popular spermicide called nonoxynol-9 does not protect people from sexually transmitted infections as previously thought. Contraceptive products that contain this spermicide, such as condoms, vaginal gels, inserts, and contraceptive film, are now required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States to carry a label indicating nonoxynol-9 does not protect against STIs. It may actually increase the risk of getting HIV from an infected person, because of the irritation it can cause to the lining of the vagina or rectum. The SOGC recommends that spermicide only be used by women who are at low risk for STIs and HIV, for example, women in monogamous relationships where STIs have been ruled out. It’s best to use uncoated condoms instead of nonoxynol-9 coated condoms.
Where to find it
You can buy spermicide at any drugstore.
Troubleshooting
Some spermicides have a bad odour or taste. When buying spermicide, make sure that it's nonoxynol-9. There are lots of other hygiene-type products that look very similar, and are pretty easy to confuse with spermicide.
Last Modified: April 15, 2008
