How To Use Spermicidal Foams/Gel

The use of spermicidal foams/gel is something that raises a few questions, particularly the one about whether or not they are effective as a form of birth control all on their own. Sexual health clinics and medical practitioners won’t ever recommend using these products without them being accompanied by a condom and this is because preventing the spread of STDs is important. In terms of pregnancy prevention, well, that’s a whole other ball game.

The Facts About Spermicidal Foams/Gel

Unless you’re in a monogamous relationship then any method of birth control that doesn’t prevent the spread of STDs is not considered ideal. STDs can cause infertility, cervical cancer and even death and using spermicidal foams/gel alone won’t do anything to protect you.

The way these types of products work is by acting as a barrier between the sperm and the uterus. They contain chemicals that kill off sperm as well. You should insert them into the vagina right before intercourse in order for them to be most effective. While the spermicide does act as a barrier or sorts, this is in no way as effective as barrier methods of birth control such as diaphragms or cervical caps. As a matter of fact, research has found that spermicidal foams/gel have a failure rate of close to 30 percent based on typical use. By failure this means that 30 percent of couples get pregnant while using this method alone.

Some More Information

While no method of birth control is 100 percent effective—except for abstinence of course—spermicidal foams/gel are the least effective method unless combined with condoms or another form of birth control. And once again, these do nothing to help protect you against STDs.  Contrary to belief, spermicides kill sperm but cannot kill a sexually transmitted disease.

Something else to keep in mind is that when using spermicidal foams/gel you are dealing with chemicals (most commonly Nonoxynol-9). As with the use of any chemical you should know that there is a chance, though small, of irritation to the skin on either your part or your partner’s. Those with very sensitive skin may want to avoid the use of this type of contraceptive all together and opt for another of the many birth control options available. When you’re dealing with something as intimate as your nether regions it really is better—and possibly less painful—to be safe than sorry!