A spermicide essentially stops sperm in its tracks, killing it before conception can occur. Spermicides are relatively cheap, but they have some drawbacks.
Spermicides designed to immobilize and kill sperm before pregnancy can occur. They can be used as birth control on their own or in combination with other devices, such as condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps.
When used by themselves, spermicides aren't very good at preventing pregnancy. Fifteen percent of couples who use a spermicide as directed will become pregnant over the course of a year. Of the couples who use spermicide incorrectly, 29 percent will become pregnant.
A spermicide used correctly with a condom, however, can have a failure rate as low as 3 percent, and is just about as effective when used with birth control devices like a diaphragm.
Keep in mind that spermicides provide no protection at all against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In fact, they may even increase your risk of contracting STDs because spermicidal chemicals can irritate your skin, leaving you more vulnerable to infection.
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Types of Spermicide
For a spermicide to work, it must be inserted deep into the vagina so that it forms a barrier over the cervix, the opening into the womb. Spermicides come in a variety of forms, including:
- Gels, jellies, and creams. These come in different consistencies and textures, but all contain about the same amount of spermicidal chemical, between 1 percent and 5 percent. They are inserted into the vagina using a syringe-like applicator.
- Foam. This type of spermicide contains a high level of spermicidal chemical, about 12.5 percent, and can prove more irritating to the genitals. Foam also is inserted using a syringe-like applicator.
- Vaginal contraceptive film. This spermicide comes in the form of a 2-inch-square piece of film that feels much like wax paper. You insert it by folding it in half twice, then placing it on your finger and sliding it deep into the vagina. It contains an even higher level of spermicidal chemical — about 28 percent.
- Suppositories. These spermicides come in solid form, and are inserted by hand. They contain 2 to 8 percent of the spermicidal chemical.
Foams, jellies, creams, and gels range in cost from $7 to $18, but generally cost around $8. Film and suppositories also cost about $8. Per use, a spermicide costs between $.50 and $1.50.
Follow Directions Included With the Spermicide
You need to follow the manufacturer's instructions closely when using any of these products, as the specific directions may vary. Also, make sure that you give them enough time to work before having sexual intercourse. It takes about 10 minutes for gels, jellies, creams, and foam to reach full effectiveness.
Vaginal contraceptive film takes about 15 minutes to dissolve into a thick gel. Suppositories take 10 to 15 minutes before they dissolve and take effect.
Pros and Cons of Spermicides
The pros of spermicides:
- They're easy to purchase in a pharmacy, and do not require a doctor's visit.
- They have no lasting effect on a woman's hormones.
- They can be conveniently tucked into your pocket or purse.
- They're inexpensive.
The cons of spermicides:
- They take a little while to provide full protection, and must be used correctly in order to block sperm from entering the uterus, or womb.
- When used alone, they're much less effective than other birth control methods.
- They don't protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
- They may irritate the genitals and increase the chance of STDs.
Talk with your partner about the good and bad qualities of spermicides to decide if using one is right for you.