Spermicide

Overview:

Spermicide is a type of birth control or contraception. It prevents sperm from reaching the egg. It is available in the form of gels, foams, or creams. These have to be inserted in the vagina before intercourse to kill the sperm or prevent the sperm movement and prevent it from reaching the egg for fertilization.

Composition:

Spermicides contain a compound called nonoxynol-9 that prevents sperm movement and prevents it from reaching the egg. They close the entry of the sperm from the cervix and do not allow the sperm to swim. The sperm had to travel to reach the egg for fertilization. A spermicide prevents this. Its effectiveness decreases if it is not used properly.

Indications:

Spermicide is a type of birth control. It is a barrier method of contraception. It can be used to prevent unnecessary pregnancy. It can also be used when couples or sexual partners plan to conceive after some time.

Advantages:

It has advantages like:

It prevents pregnancy
It is less expensive and available over-the-counter
It is a barrier method of contraception and also acts as a lubricant
It does not alter the hormones of the female partner
It is easy to apply
It does not cause any break in the sexual intercourse
It does not affect the pleasure

Types of spermicides:

Different types of spermicides are available as gels, foams, creams, and suppositories.

Spermicidal foams are available as aerosols. They are available in a tube with an applicator. The tube has to be pressed gently to fill the applicator with foam. The applicator has to be gently inserted into the vagina by lying in a comfortable position and pressed to push the foam inside the body. This should be applied at least an hour before sex. If the duration is delayed, more foam must be pushed per the manufacturer’s instructions. The applicator has to be cleaned and kept dry.
Spermicidal films are vaginal contraceptive films available as wax sheets. These 2x2 inch thin film sheets. They should be folded twice, placed on the tip of the finger, and inserted into the vina. This has to be applied at least 15 minutes before sex.
Spermicide inserts, tablets, or suppositories have concentrated spermicide. These have to be inserted at least 10-15 minutes before sex for them to dissolve into a foamy substance.
Spermicidal jellies are another form of concentrated spermicide which are commonly used with diaphragms or cervical caps. These have to be applied every hour for effective contraception.
Spermicidal creams and gels are similar to jellies as they provide lubrication and contraception. They have to be applied 15 minutes before sex.
Spermicidal contraceptive sponges are round polyurethane foams that contain spermicide. These have to be moistened before applying them to the vagina.

Before using the spermicide:

Spermicide is not effective when used alone. It shows more effectiveness when used in combination with other contraceptive methods. Before using the spermicide certain factors have to be considered. They are:

Consult a healthcare provider if one has allergies to any contact allergies to external compound application.
If an individual gets pregnant despite using these the spermicide does not increase the risk of miscarriage or birth defects.
The secretion of spermicide into breastmilk is unknown and hence it can be used by breastfeeding mothers to avoid pregnancy.
Spermicides are for vaginal sex only and not for anal use.
Vaginal douching or intravaginal cleaning reduces the effectiveness of the spermicide. This should be avoided even within 6-8 hours of sexual intercourse.
These can also be used with a condom when having sex during periods.
Spermicides have to be applied at least 15 minutes before the sex and are effective for an hour and hence need reapplication if the sex lasts longer.

Using the spermicide alone:

When using the spermicide alone follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to properly use the spermicide. The spermicide should be properly placed in the cervix for it to work effectively. Use the desired amount as per the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it in the correct direction. One has to wait for some time before intercourse for the spermicide to start acting properly. Extra spermicide may be needed if one does not have intercourse within half an hour of the first application.

Using spermicide with other contraceptives:

When using a spermicide along with other contraceptives like cervical caps, diaphragms, or condoms always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Suppose the spermicide manufacturer instructs not to use the spermicide with latex products, it is better to avoid using them as spermicide can cause holes in the cervical caps, diaphragms, or condoms reducing their effectiveness.

When using spermicide with other contraceptives, apply the spermicide on them before inserting them.

If a cervical cap is used, see that it has no holes or tears, apply spermicide on the cap, and gently push the cap into the vagina in a comfortable position. After placing the cap apply extra spermicide in the cervix.
When using a cervical diaphragm, watch for any holes or tears and fold it into a cup, apply the spermicide over it, and carefully insert the diaphragm into the cervix. Reapply extra spermicide after placing the diaphragm.
If a condom is used apply the spermicide on the surface of the condom before placing it over the penis. It is also advisable for the female sexual partner to apply spermicide in her vagina to prevent unnecessary pregnancy.

One has to repeat applying the spermicide each time they are doing sexual intercourse. One has to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how long to wait after using spermicide and other contraceptives and when to remove them.

Risks and complications:

Vaginal or penile irritation due to the chemical of the spermicide is a side effect of using them. Spermicides do not prevent sexually transmitted infections.

Conclusion:

Spermicides are a barrier method of contraception. They are available as foams, jellies, creams, suppositories, and films. They can prevent unnecessary or unplanned pregnancy if used properly or in combination with other contraceptive methods.

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