SPERMICIDES
WHEN and HOW?
Spermicides must be used, along with a cervical cap, diaphragm or other barrier method, every time you have sex. The efficacy of spermicides is 79% with typical use.
How to use spermicides?
Seeing as spermicides aren’t recommended as a contraceptive on their own, the instructions on how to use them lie in the other method you are using them with.
But in all cases, you:
- First, insert the cream, film, foam, gel, or suppository deep into your vagina using your fingers or the applicator provided. You need to put spermicide into the vagina 5 to 90 minutes before you have sex.
- You usually need to leave it in place at least 6 to 8 hours after sex; do not douche or rinse the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex.
Instructions can be different for each type of spermicide. Whether you’re using a cervical cap, a diaphragm, external condom or internal condom or another method, read the instructions before you use it and pay attention to expiry dates.
Spermicides PROS:
- It can be used on demand
- It’s easy to use
- It is hormone free
- It’s widely available
- Low cost
Spermicides CONS:
- It requires keeping track of the hours inserted
- It may cause some irritation, allergic reactions, urinary tract infection
- If you are also using a medicine for a vaginal yeast infection, the spermicide might not work as well
- Should not be used as a contraceptive on its own as it is not effective
- Does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
All important details about Spermicides
Spermicides aren’t very effective on their own and shouldn’t be used alone as a contraceptive. But when used with a diaphragm, a cervical cap or a condom, they suddenly start making an impact. They come in all sorts of forms, pastes, foams, films and more, but they all work by creating an environment that makes life difficult for sperm to move around freely. They are an add on option.
Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy in two ways:
- Blocking the entrance to the cervix so sperm can’t get to your egg.
- Stopping sperm from moving well enough to swim to your egg.
Questions & Answers about the Spermicides
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No, it is not recommended. Spermicides aren’t very effective on their own and shouldn’t be used alone as a contraceptive but when used with a diaphragm, a cervical cap or a condom, they begin to make a difference.
Spermicides can be used by couples of all ages. However, some couples may experience some irritation, allergic reactions, urinary tract infections.
Yes, spermicide can be used at the same time as latex condoms. The spermicidal active ingredient does not attack the latex material.
Yes, always. You usually need to leave it in place at least 6 to 8 hours after sex; do not douche or rinse the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex. Instructions can be different for each type of spermicide. Whether you’re using a cervical cap, a diaphragm, male or female condoms or another method, read the instructions before you use it and pay attention to expiry dates.
