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Your guide to contraception: Spermicides

Contraception is a way for men and women to prevent pregnancy. There are many different methods of pregnancy; some types also protect against sexually transmitted infections.

One form of contraception is a spermicide, which contains chemicals that destroy the sperm, thereby preventing it from fertilising an egg. Most spermicides use the chemical nonoxinol 9 and they are available in many forms, such as foam, jellies, creams, or pessaries.

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Do spermicides protect against sexually transmitted infections?

It was initially thought that spermicides offered protection against some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). But recent studies show spermicides do not appear to prevent STIs. Frequent use of spermicides containing nonoxinol 9 may actually cause irritation and small tears of the genital tissue, allowing for easier transmission of HIV and other STIs. In other words, using nonoxinol 9 may actually increase the chances of contracting a STI. If irritation of the vagina or penis develops, it is recommended that you discontinue use and get advice from a doctor or nurse.

The only way to prevent getting an STI is not to have sexual intercourse or sexual contact. However, for those individuals choosing to have sexual intercourse, condoms provide the best protection from most STIs.

How effective are spermicides?

Although spermicides can be used alone, health experts say they shouldn’t be used on their own because they’re not effective enough to prevent an unwanted pregnancy.

The Family Planning Association (FPA) advises against using additional spermicide with condoms. The fpa also advises against using condoms that have been pre-lubricated with spermicide. This is because of the concerns regarding STI risk and spermicide use. However, the fpa continues to advise using spermicide with diaphragms and caps to make these methods more effective in protecting against pregnancy. When used together and properly, the most effective diaphragms or caps and spermicides can be 92% to 96% effective in preventing pregnancy.