Options for Sexual Health

What are spermicides and how do they work?

All contraceptive spermicides available in B.C. at the present time contain the sperm-killing chemical nonoxynol-9 and work by setting up a chemical block at the entrance to the uterus. Here, sperm are trapped by the foam or gel barrier and destroyed by the chemical. The amount of nonoxynol-9 varies depending on the type and brand of spermicide.

What types of spermicides are available?

Contraceptive Foam or Gel

Inserted into the vagina prior to intercourse using an applicator

• One brand is Delfen^TM foam, which should be inserted no more than 15 minutes prior to intercourse.
• Another is Gynol II™ jelly, which requires insertion of one applicator (approx. 2 tsp. or 10 m).

Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF)

VCF is packaged as a single, small, thin, translucent piece of solid gel. It is inserted into the vagina using your fingers 15 minutes to 1 hour prior to intercourse (to allow time for the gel to soften and coat the vagina and cervix).

All of the above spermicides need to be re-inserted prior to each act of intercourse.

Contraceptive Sponge

This is a soft, pliable, polyurethane sponge containing three chemicals, including a low concentration of non-oxynol-9.

• The sponge is inserted into the vagina using your fingers prior to intercourse.
• Intercourse can be repeated using the same sponge and must be left in for 6 hours following the last act of intercourse.
• After removal, a new sponge should be used.

How effective are they?

• Vaginal spermicides used alone are about 78% effective.
• When spermicides are consistently used together with a condom, the combined effectiveness is 95% or greater—about the effectiveness of birth control pills.

Advantages

• Are non-hormonal
• Can be purchased by anyone without a prescription at a drugstore or at an OPT clinic
• Available in several forms for personal convenience

Disadvantages

• May cause irritation to the vagina or penis or contribute to yeast and urinary tract infections
• May be difficult or inconvenient to use because it must be applied immediately before intercourse
• Possibly affects spontaneity
• Effective for a limited time unless re-applied
• Provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections
• Need to be comfortable touching your vagina

Considerations

• Women may want to lie on their backs briefly after intercourse to be sure the foam, gel or film stays against the cervix to destroy sperm trying to enter.
• Remember to re-insert another applicator of foam or gel or a new film for each act of intercourse.
• There is no need to douche after using a spermicide, or at any other time unless recommended by your physician. If you want to douche, wait at least 8 hours after the last act of intercourse to allow the foam to destroy as many sperm as possible.
• Keep an extra application of spermicide handy in case you need to use it.
• Some people can have an allergic reaction to a spermicide. If an irritation develops, try changing brands.
• Not recommended for frequent use in women who are at high risk of contracting HIV, as nonoxynol-9 may increase the risk of infection.
• Condoms lubricated with nonoxynol-9 offer no more protection against pregnancy than those lubricated with silicone lubricants. To be effective, a spermicide must be used in a separate form as discussed above.

Talk openly with your partner and work together to be safe.
Contraception protects both of you.