What are they?
Spermicides come in many different forms, such as foams, jellies, creams, suppositories, and films, and they work by killing sperm after they have been inserted into the vagina. Spermicides are designed to cover the vaginal walls, as well as the opening to the cervix, after being inserted in the vagina. Different types of spermicides dissolve differently and vary in the amount of time they take to dissolve.
Different types of spermicides
Foams, Jellies, and Creams: These types of spermicides resemble shaving cream and come with an applicator. They can be used alone, or with a condom, diaphragm or cervical cap. Foams are the best of these three for preventing pregnancy.
Suppositories: These spermicides are small and round objects which you should insert into the vagina about 10 to 15 minutes before intercourse depending, on the product. Because they are solid before you insert they are easier and less messy to use than foams, jellies, and creams. They can be used alone or with a condom. This timing is needed to make sure that the spermicide has completely dissolved.
Films: Films, such as VCF, resemble small, square sheets of paper. One has to be inserted near the cervix 10 to 15 minutes before intercourse so that it has an opportunity to melt properly. When melted, the spermicide covers the vaginal walls with a gel-like substance. They can also be used alone or with a condom.
How to use
It is important that you carefully read the instructions that come with the spermicide you purchase, because the instructions vary depending on the kind that you get. Make sure that you leave the spermicide in for the instructed amount of time before having intercourse, since some of the spermicides need time to dissolve properly. If the spermicide is not completely dissolved it may not be as effective.
You can use another application of spermicide if you decide to have intercourse again.
If you want to douche you should wait at least eight hours after intercourse. It is a good idea to take a shower instead of a bath after intercourse because bathing may flush the spermicide - which is your birth control method - out of the vagina.
Advantages
- They can reduce the chance of getting a sexually transmitted disease.
- They have no known side effects.
- They can be purchased over the counter.
- They are a very effective form of contraception when used with another barrier method, such as condoms.
- They are fairly inexpensive.
- They can provide lubrication.
- You can stop using them whenever you want.
Disadvantages
- They can interrupt spontaneity.
- They can be messy (especially the foams, jellies, and creams).
- Oral sex may not be as enjoyable because of the spermicide's taste.
- Increased chance of getting urinary tract infections.
- Can cause irritation of the genitals. If this occurs try changing brands or types of spermicides since this may solve the problem.
- Some people are sensitive or allergic to the spermicide.
- You need to plan ahead and always have a supply available.
Spermicides may be right for you if...
- You are not able to use other methods of birth control for medical reasons.
- You are concerned about side effects.
- You don't want an ongoing method of birth control.
- You have just delivered a baby or had an abortion.
Spermicides are not right for you if...
- You are not able to insert them properly.
- You want a very effective form of contraception.
- You or your partner is allergic to spermicides.
- You don't like touching your genitals.
Cost
- Foams: $12
- Jellies or creams: $12
- Suppositories: 12 for $4
- Film: 12 sheets for $9.25
- Approximately $0.30 to $1 per intercourse act, depending on which form you choose.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness rate of spermicides depends largely on whether they have been inserted correctly and if they are inserted no more than one hour before sexual intercourse. The failure rate among typical users ranges from 5% to 50% depending on these two factors.
© - Reproduced with permission of SexInfo, University of California at Santa Barbara, 2007.