Spermicides

What are spermicides?

Spermicides contain chemicals which destroys sperm on contact. The most common spermicide ingredient is called Nonoxynol-9. Spermicides come in many different forms including: cream, gel, foam, suppositories, and film.

How effective are spermicides in preventing pregnancy?

Spermicides are 79-94 percent effective when used alone. They are even more effective in preventing pregnancy when used in addition to another barrier method such as condoms, female condoms, and diaphragms.

What about spermicide treated condoms?

Studies have shown that male condoms lubricated with Nonoxynol-9 are no more effective in preventing pregnancy then regular condoms or condoms with a non-spermicidal lubricant. However, condoms and a separate spermicide product are more effective in preventing pregnancy then a condom used on its own.

Do spermicides offer protection from sexually transmitted infections (STI's) and HIV?

No. Unfortunately, spermicides have not been proven to have the ability to destroy sexually transmitted bacteria and viruses (including HIV). The World Health Organization makes the following recommendations:

• Condoms should always be used to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
• Nonoxynol-9 should not be used for the purpose of preventing STI's or HIV infection.
• For women who have multiple daily acts of intercourse, high-frequency use of nonoxynol-9 products can cause vaginal irritation and microscopic tissue damage which may increase the risk of HIV infection.
• Nonoxynol-9 should not be used rectally.

Advantages to spermicides:

• Spermicides lubricate the vagina and make penetration easier.
• Spermicide use does not rely on involvement from male partner.
• Spermicides can be used as a form of emergency contraception if a barrier method (e.g condom) breaks or slips off.
• Spermicides are available at any drugstore without a doctor's prescription.
• Spermicides are affordable and come in a variety of brands.

Disadvantages to spermicides:

• Some people may have an allergy or sensitivity to the components of spermicide. Always do a skin test first on the inside of your arm.
• Spermicides must be reapplied for each act of intercourse to be most effective.
• Spermicides do not taste good and should be avoided before oral-genital sex.

How to use spermicides:

Check the expiry date on the spermicide package. Always wash your hands and applicator (if required) before inserting spermicide products.

Film-Vaginal contraceptive film is a paper-thin sheet that should be inserted by your finger as close to the cervix as possible. The film will dissolve and disperse in the vagina. Putting the film on the end of the penis for insertion is not recommended because it may not be placed properly.

Gels and Creams-Spermicides in the form of gels and creams require an applicator. The applicator should be filled with the appropriate amount of product and then inserted as far into the vagina as it will comfortably go. Push the plunger of the applicator to release the product close to your cervix.

Foam-Shake foam container well, before filling applicator. Then follow the steps mentioned above for gel and cream application.

Suppository-Remove capsule from packaging. Insert into vagina with finger as far as it will go to rest near your cervix.

References - Contraceptive Technology (2004)

SOGC Clinical Practice Guidelines (2004)

Sex Sense - Canadian Contraception Guide (2000)

Revised: 2006-01-16