What is spermicide and how does it work?

Spermicide used as a contraceptive. However, to increase the effectiveness of birth control and prevent sexually transmitted diseases, users need to combine the use of other methods of contraception.

Spermicide is made from a chemical that kills sperm to prevent fertilization. There is currently only one spermicide in the US, called nonoxynol-9 (N-9), which can be used alone or in combination with other birth control methods.
Spermicides are sold in different forms such as foam, tablets, cream, suppositories or soluble films. Accordingly, spermicides for men are often sold in the form of oral tablets.
To achieve high contraceptive effectiveness, you need to combine use with other birth control devices such as cap and diaphragm.
MORE: Learn birth control methods with spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm and cervical cap

No need for partner cooperation No prescription needed No side effects like hormonal contraceptives Lubrication during sex Effective when combined with other birth control methods like condoms , diaphragm or cervical cap

Spermicides can be about 72% effective in preventing pregnancy during the first year of use without using other methods of contraception. In addition to the contraceptive benefits, spermicides may pose some of the following risks:
Urinary tract infections Vaginal irritation such as burning, itching or rash Allergic reactions. There is no protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. Penile irritation or burning urination in a partner.

Spermicide is not suitable for everyone. Spermicides are not recommended for people who:
Are at high risk for HIV infection or have HIV/AIDS Frequently have urinary tract infections High chance of becoming pregnant (under 30 years old or having sex sex 3 or more times a week) Do not use a combination of other methods of contraception

Some ways to use spermicide are as follows:
Choose the right spermicide: Foam, gel, cream spermicides usually work immediately; Meanwhile, pills need to be taken 10 - 30 minutes before sex. After 1 hour of sex, you need to reapply spermicide before the next time you have sex. Apply spermicide: Choose a comfortable position such as lying down. Using an applicator or finger, insert the medication into the vagina in or near the cervix. For the applicator, fill the applicator with the recommended amount of cream, gel, or foam and insert it into the vagina as deeply as possible. Push the plunger to release the spermicide near the cervix. For hand usage, wash and dry your hands and place the medication on your finger. Slide your finger along the back wall of the vagina near the cervix. Remember to apply the drug after each sex. Precautions after sex: For maximum effectiveness, make sure the spermicide remains in the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex. After 6 hours, there is no need to remove any remaining spermicide in the vagina. Douches should not be used after sex, if desired, wait 6 hours. Spermicide is a common method of birth control. Besides the benefits, spermicides also have certain risks. Therefore, you should consider and choose the most suitable birth control method.

References: mayoclinic.org, webmd.com