Chemical contraceptives

Written by Dr David Delvin, GP and family planning specialist

Sponges

Sponges containing spermicide were popular back in the 1990s but have now rather dropped out of fashion in Western countries, due to a high pregnancy rate (24 per cent in one recent trial).

A new type of sponge is due to be marketed in the UK during 2006, and it could certainly be of help to women whose fertility is already low - for instance, those over the age of 45, and breastfeeding mothers.

Can chemicals harm you?

Various fragrances, colourings and other components are contained in spermicidal products. Not surprisingly, both men and women can become allergic to these ingredients. Symptoms of allergy include soreness, swelling, redness and itching. If allergy occurs, take medical advice and then switch to another product (or method).

Nonoxinol-'9' has recently been shown to cause vaginal irritation in some women who use a great deal over a long period of time. But unless you are having sex all day long, this is unlikely tio apply to you.

At present, there is no information as to whether spermicidal products could harm a baby, if pregnancy occurred.

Please note that in some countries, pharmacists may still be selling old-fashioned spermicidal products which can attack rubber. These products, which are mainly oil-based, could make holes in rubber condoms or caps.

Will spermicidal chemicals protect you against disease?

No. There has been some publicity about the fact that nonoxinol-'9' has an anti-germ action. Nonetheless, it cannot give you any worthwhile protection against chlamydia, HIV or other sex infections.

Will spermicidal chemicals last all night?

No. In general, spermicides are only effective for about 45 to 60 minutes. If you go on having sex longer than that (or if you have sex twice), you need to insert a top-up of spermicide.

What brands are available?

This varies from country to country. Brands on sale in the UK in 2006 include the following, none of which will harm condoms, diaphragms or caps:

Ortho-Creme (cream, with applicator).

Ortho-Forms (pessaries).

For further help with your contraception, please see our other articles about different contraceptive methods on the site. Up-to-date information is always available from pharmacists, Family Planning Clinics and GPs.

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