Contraception: spermicides
What are spermicides?
Spermicides are a form of chemical contraception that can be bought over the counter from your chemist or pharmacist. They are available in the form of creams or gels. The active ingredients include nonoxynol 9 (Ortho-Crème) and octoxinol (Ortho-Gynol).
How do they work?
Spermicides work by killing or stopping sperm on contact thus making the sperm inactive and unable to pass through the cervix, and fertilise an egg. To be most effective, they should be used in conjunction with a barrier method of contraception such as condoms or diaphragms. In fact, they are not recommended for preventing pregnancy when used on their own.
How effective are they?
If used as the only form of contraception, up to a quarter of women may become pregnant within a year.
What are the advantages?
Some of the advantages of spermicides are that they:
- are available without a prescription;
- can be used without the need for medical procedures;
- have no known risk to general health; and
- allow fertility to return immediately when use is discontinued.
What are the disadvantages?
Some of the disadvantages of spermicides are that they:
- are less effective than other methods as they are subject to human error;
- may produce side effects such as vaginal or penile irritation;
- must be applied at the correct time, and reapplied with subsequent sex acts; and
- must remain in place for 6-8 hours after ejaculation to make sure all sperm are killed.
How are they used?
You should apply the spermicides into your vagina, usually with an applicator, as high as possible, before intercourse, but not more than an hour ahead of your partner’s ejaculation. You should follow the package instructions carefully, and re-apply the spermicide if sexual intercourse is repeated or delayed. You must also wait 6-8 hours afterwards before rinsing or douching.
Last Reviewed: 01 May 2002
