Spermicide
Spermicide is a chemical in
the form of a jelly, foam, or cream and is a barrier method of birth control.
Its spermicidal chemicals are designed to kill sperm before they reach the
uterus.
How effective is spermicide?
By themselves, spermicidal
chemicals are not considered an effective form of contraception. Typical
spermicide use, which is considered the way most people use it, has a 28%
failure rate. Spermicides should be used with another barrier method of
contraception such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or condom. You must take a
pregnancy test if you have symptoms of pregnancy.
What are the side effects or health risks of spermicides?
For some people, an allergic
reaction to spermicides can cause itching, burning, or redness.
Are spermicides reversible?
Yes. They do not affect the
male or female reproductive cycle. You can get pregnant right away if you don't
use it anymore.
What about spermicides and sexually transmitted diseases?
Spermicidal chemicals do not
prevent vaginal contact with a partner's skin or body fluids. Spermicide should
not be considered as a remedy for sexually transmitted diseases.
What are the pros and cons of spermicides?
The pros:
- When combined with other barrier methods (condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap), the combined failure rate is between 3% – 10%.
- Doctor visits are not required to obtain spermicide.
- Spermicide is easily accessible at grocery stores, drug stores, and supercenters.
- It is inexpensive and easy to carry.
The cons:
- Spermicide must be inserted less than 30 minutes prior to intercourse and ideally less than 20 minutes.
- It must be inserted for each act of sexual intercourse.
- It requires another barrier method to avoid high failure rates.
- Spermicide does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.