Spermicides block the cervix (the opening to the uterus) and slow sperm down to make it harder for them to swim to an egg. In order to work, the spermicide must be placed deep in the vagina close to the cervix. Creams, gels, and foams are squirted into the vagina using an applicator.

What does the spermicidal cream do?

Spermicides block the cervix (the opening to the uterus) and slow sperm down to make it harder for them to swim to an egg. In order to work, the spermicide must be placed deep in the vagina close to the cervix. Creams, gels, and foams are squirted into the vagina using an applicator.

When should a spermicidal cream be used?

How long does spermicide last? Timing is important when it comes to spermicide. Some spermicide isn’t effective right away and must be put in your vagina at least 10-15 minutes before sex. And many spermicides are only effective for 1 hour after you put them in your vagina.

How effective is spermicidal cream?

How effective is spermicide? Spermicide alone is about 70% effective in preventing pregnancy. It’s one of the least effective methods of birth control when used by itself. If you’re trying to prevent pregnancy, you should combine it with another form of birth control like a condom or diaphragm.

What is a spermicidal product?

What is spermicide? Spermicide is a chemical you put deep in the vagina before having sex. Most spermicide products contain the active ingredient called nonoxynol-9. This ingredient prevents pregnancy by either blocking the cervix or killing sperm.

What happens if you ingest spermicide?

What happens if I accidentally swallow some spermicide? Most spermicides have an unpleasant taste but will not usually harm you or make you feel ill, however it is advisable to avoid swallowing excessive amounts.

How effective is pulling out during ovulation?

What we do know is that withdrawal works about 78% of the time overall. But the odds of pregnancy are always higher during the 5 days leading up to, and during, ovulation — these are called fertile days. If no semen gets on your vulva or in your vagina, pregnancy can’t happen — whether or not you’re ovulating.

Can spermicide cause UTI?

One well-known risk factor for UTIs caused by coliform organisms is exposure to vaginal spermicides. Several studies have confirmed a higher risk of UTIs among women using a diaphragm with spermicides compared with sexually active women using other types of contraceptives.

How do you insert vaginal film?

Slide your finger, covered with the film, into the vagina as far as you can go so the film rests on or near the cervix (at the top end of your vagina). Insert VCF no less than 15 minutes and no more than 3 hour before intercourse. If more than 3 hours pass since the VCF was inserted, insert another film.

Is the Today Sponge still available?

The Today sponge, discontinued in 1995, may be back on shelves this fall, thanks to Allendale Pharmaceuticals of Allendale, New Jersey. When the apparatus became scarce and, ultimately unavailable, many sponge devotees were outraged.

How does VCF gel work?

VCF needs to be placed inside the vagina at least 15 minutes before penis-in-vagina sex in order to work. It dissolves into a gel, with the spermicide acting as a barrier at the opening of the cervix. When sperm reaches the gel, it’s killed or blocked. That means it’s unable to reach the uterus and fertilize an egg.

What drug kills sperm?

What is a spermicide and how does it work? Spermicides are birth control medicine that kill sperm. There are many kinds of spermicides: cream, foam, jelly, suppository or film.

What is spermicide gel?

Spermicide is an OTC birth control method that stops and immobilizes sperm. Spermicides are available in several forms, including spermicidal jelly/gel, cream, foam, film, and suppositories. Spermicide can be used by itself.

What is spermicide used to prevent?

A spermicide is a substance inserted into the vagina before sex that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm before they can fertilize an egg. Spermicides are usually paired with a barrier contraceptive such as a condom, diaphragm, contraceptive sponge, or cervical cap. Can spermicides alone prevent pregnancy?

What is a spermicidal film?

A spermicidal film is a thin translucent layer of spermicide that can be placed on the vagina and absorbed. Many women find a film more comfortable than creams, foams or gels — which can be cold upon application.

What is the difference between spermicidal jelly and cream?

Cream and jelly spermicides are typically sold in tubes like toothpaste. Because spermicidal jelly is thicker than liquid or foam spermicide, it can often be difficult to ensure it has been applied to the entire vagina — leaving some parts of you unprotected. Some manufacturers provide an applicator to make the process easier.