Vaginal Spermicide Methods

Spermicidal preparations consist of two components: the formulation or carrier base (gel, foam, cream, film, or tablet), and the chemical, nonoxynol-9 (N-9), that kills the sperm. Nonoxynol-9 is a surfactant that destroys the sperm cell membrane.

Gels and Creams:

Commonly marketed for use with diaphragms but can be used alone.

One application delivers 50 mg to 150 mg of spermicide, depending on the product, with the spermicide concentration ranging and from 2 to 5%. Immediately active with placement.

Foam:

Spermicidal foam can be used alone or with a condom.

One applicator full delivers 50 mg to 150 mg of spermicide with the spermicide concentration ranging from 8 to 12%. Immediately active with placement.

Suppositories:

Spermicide suppositories can be used alone or with a condom.

They provide 50mg to 125mg of spermicide in concentrations of 2.3-5.6%. Adequate time between insertion and intercourse (10-15 minutes depending on the product) is essential for the spermicide to dissolve and disperse. Incomplete dissolution of the suppository may reduce its contraceptive efficacy and may cause an uncomfortable gritty sensation or friction.

Film:

Vaginal contraceptive film ((VCF) can be used alone or with a diaphragm.

Each 2" x 2" paper-thin sheet of film has a spermicide concentration of 28% and contains 72mg of N-9. The sheet must be inserted on or near the cervix or inside the diaphragm at least 15 minutes before intercourse to allow time for the sheet to melt and disperse. Placing the film on the tip of the penis for insertion is not recommended as the film will not have adequate time to dissolve and it may not be properly placed so as to cover the cervical os.

How effective are vaginal spermicides?

• Perfect use failure rate in first year is 6%.
• Typical use failure rate is 26% in the first year.
• The effectiveness of spermicides, like any barrier method, depends on consistent and correct use.
• To be effective, spermicide must be placed correctly in the vagina no longer than one hour prior to intercourse and the spermicide applicator, tablet, suppository or film needs to make contact with the cervix.
• A woman who has used a vaginal spermicide for contraception should not douche for at least 6 hours after intercourse to avoid washing away the spermicide prematurely.

Instructions for use of vaginal spermicides

Before Intercourse, Check to be sure that you have all the necessary supplies. If you are using foam, cream, or gel, you may also need a plastic applicator.

Plan ahead about when to insert your method. If you are using suppositories or film a waiting period between insertion and intercourse is essential.

For insertion, sash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Foam: shake the foam container vigorously at least 20 times then use the nozzle to fill the plastic applicator.

Gel, cream, or foam: fill the applicator by squeezing the spermicide tube. Insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it will go; then, holding the applicator still, push the plunger to release the gel, cream, or foam.

Suppository: Remove the wrapping and slide the suppository into your vagina. Push it along the back wall of your vagina as far as you can so that it rests on or near the cervix.

Film: Be sure your fingers are completely dry. Place one sheet of film on your fingertip and slide it along the back wall of your vagina as far as you can so that the film rests on or near the cervix.

Repeated intercourse: apply a new application of spermicide each time you have intercourse. Alternately, you can switch to condoms for repeated intercourse.

After intercourse: Leave spermicide in place for at least 6 hours after intercourse. Do not douche or rinse your vagina. (May douche after 6 hours)Caring for supplies:

Store spermicide in a convenient location that is clean, cool, dry, and dark. After each use wash your reusable applicator with plain soap and water. Do not use talcum powder on the applicator.