Health Topics: Contraception: Vaginal Spermicides (foam, creams, jellies)
Chemical spermicide kills sperm and thus prevents pregnancy. A number of creams, jellies and foam with spermicidal effects have been marketed. Some, like Conceptrol, have been sold as a single-use applicator and have gained considerable popularity because of the convenience of this approach. Others have been used primarily as the spermicidal agent accompanying the diaphragm or condom. The spermicide forms a protective barrier at the cervix and also kills sperm.
There is a wide gap between average effectiveness rates and perfect user effectiveness. Failure rates of 1.5-29% per 100 women have been reported. However, spermicide used with condoms is as effective as the pill, if used consistently and correctly.
Vaginal Foams:
Several brands of foam come in pre-filled applicators, ready for use. If the foam comes in a separate container from the applicator, the applicator is filled to a designated mark by pressure applied directly onto the top of the container (Emko) or by tilting the applicator (Delfen).
Shake the can 20 times before using. This ensures that there will be plenty of bubbles for the barrier and that the spermicide will be mixed with the foam. Since the bubbles start going flat within a half hour, try to insert the foam just before intercourse.
Insert the applicator into the vagina back near the cervix and push the plunger.
Advantages:
Foams, creams and jellies can be purchased over the counter without a prescription
They are inexpensive, have rare complications and are easy to use
Spermicides can be effectively used as lubricants during sexual intercourse
Disadvantages:
Rare allergic reactions: If burning or itching occurs, switching to another brand may alleviate the problem
Couples having oral-genital sex may note that spermicide has a very unpleasant taste
Available in any pharmacy, grocery or convenience store that carries family planning products.
Hudson Health Center Athens, Ohio 45701 T: (740) 593-1660
