Spermicides, contraceptives to kill sperm

What is a spermicide?

Spermicide is a contraceptive method for preventing pregnancy, which usually contains the chemical nonoxynol-9 which can kill sperm or stop its movement. This birth control device is available in the form of cream, gel, foam, or suppository.

Spermicides can be used alone, but are more effective when used in conjunction with other contraceptives such as condoms.

How does it work?

Spermicide kills sperm and stops its movement before sperm can swim into the uterus. For it to be effective, it must be placed deep in the vagina, near the cervix. Creams, gels, and foams are usually sprayed into the vagina using a special applicator. The other type is vaginal contraceptive film (VCF) in the form of a tip sheet that must be affixed behind the vagina, and a vaginal suppository that is inserted directly into the vagina.

Spermicide must be inserted into the vagina before intercourse. Each product will usually give instructions on the label about when is the right time to use it. There are some products that allow you to have sex immediately after using them, but most do not start working for at least 15 minutes after applying, so you should wait a little before starting penetration.

All types of spermicides are only effective for one hour after insertion. If you have inserted it into your vagina and it turns out that your sex took place an hour later, you will need to put it back on before starting. Women are also advised not to clean with vaginal washing soap (douche) for 6 hours after sex using a spermicide.

Are spermicides effective in preventing pregnancy?

Within one year, as many as 29 out of 100 couples who only use spermicide as a contraceptive will experience an unplanned pregnancy. Of course this figure depends on whether you use it correctly. Therefore, spermicides are most effective when combined with other contraceptives.

In general, the effectiveness of any contraceptive depends on many things. Among these are whether a person has certain diseases or is taking certain medications that might interfere with the efficacy of the birth control device. If the contraceptive device is forgotten to use or drink, this can also reduce its effectiveness.

Can spermicides prevent the transmission of venereal diseases?

Contraceptives other than condoms are not effective in preventing transmission of venereal diseases. Condoms should always be used if you are practicing casual sex, even if your partner has used spermicide. Even if used too often, spermicide can cause irritation. In fact, genital wounds can increase your risk of contracting HIV and other venereal diseases.

Are there any side effects of using a spermicide?

As explained above, frequent use can irritate the vagina and the skin around it. This irritation makes it easier for you to become infected with HIV and other venereal diseases.

Another side effect is that it increases the risk of urinary tract infections, because spermicides can disrupt the balance of bacteria in a woman's body.