SPERMICIDES
Chemical Method
Spermicides affect the way a sperm travels in the womb making it hard for them to move freely and fertilize an egg.
72 % Effective
Details
Spermicides are placed deep in the vagina before sex. They work by either killing sperm or slowing their movement so that they cannot meet an egg. Spermicides are available as foaming tablets, melting or foaming suppositories, cans of pressurised foam, melting film, jelly, and cream. They are one of the least effective contraceptive methods and need to be used correctly every time you have sex to be the effective.
How to
Spermicides are more effective when used with barrier methods such as condoms or diaphragms and have to be used every time you have sex. It is important to read the instructions of your chosen spermicide so that you use it properly as some are not effective right away. Depending on the type of spermicide you use, you may need to insert it at least 10-15 minutes before sex. Many spermicides are only effective for 1 hour after you put them in your vagina, so you will need to insert more if you are going to have sex more than once.
Pros
It can be used on demand
It does not interrupt sex
It is easy to use
It does not contain hormones
Cons
It is one of the least effective forms of contraception and should be used with a barrier method
It has to be used every time you have sex
It does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases
It can cause irritation and allergic reactions
It can be messy
Side Effects
Some people may experience irritation in or around the vagina or penis
Frequently Asked Questions
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Spermicides affect the way sperm travels in the womb making it hard for them to move freely and fertilize an egg.
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No, it is not recommended. Spermicides aren’t very effective on their own and shouldn’t be used alone as a contraceptive but when used with a diaphragm, a cervical cap or a condom, they begin to make a difference.
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Yes, spermicides can be used at the same time as latex condoms. The spermicidal active ingredient does not attack the latex material.
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Yes, spermicide can be used at the same time as latex condoms. The spermicidal active ingredient does not attack the latex material.
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Spermicides can be used by couples of all ages. However, some couples may experience some irritation, allergic reactions, and urinary tract infections.
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Yes, always. You usually need to leave it in place at least 6 to 8 hours after sex; do not douche or rinse the vagina for at least 6 hours after sex. Instructions can be different for each type of spermicide. Whether you’re using a cervical cap, a diaphragm, male or female condoms or another method, read the instructions before you use it and pay attention to expiry dates.
CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS
CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS
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CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT
1 or 2 small hormone-releasing silicone rods placed under the skin by a healthcare provider.
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CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTION
The contraceptive injection is a shot of hormones that lasts for 1 up to 3 months.
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CONTRACEPTIVE PATCH
A patch that sticks to the skin and releases hormones that are highly effective at stopping pregnancy.
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CONTRACEPTIVE RING
A flexible plastic ring that is placed in the vagina by the woman and constantly releases hormones.
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DIAPHRAGM
A diaphragm is a small dome that blocks the entrance to the cervix to stop sperm from entering the womb.
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EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVES
Emergency contraceptives are hormone-based pills that are used in the event of accidental unprotected sex.
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FEMALE CONDOM
A female condom is a sheath that is placed inside a woman’s vagina before sexual intercourse.
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FERTILITY AWARENESS
Fertility awareness is the method of only having sex on the non-fertile days of your menstrual cycle.
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INTRAUTERINE DEVICE
An IUD is a small, flexible, often T-shaped device wrapped in copper that is placed inside your womb by your healthcare provider.
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INTRAUTERINE SYSTEM-IUS
An IUS is a small, flexible, T-shaped system that releases low levels of hormones and is placed inside the womb by your healthcare provider.
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MALE CONDOM
A condom is a thin film sheath that is placed over a man’s erect penis before having sex.
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PULL-OUT METHOD
Pulling out (also called Withdrawal Method) requires no additional hormones or devices, just impeccable timing and a lot of luck.
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SPONGE
A sponge blocks the entrance to the cervix and releases spermicide, both together stopping sperm from entering the womb and fertilizing an egg.
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STERILISATION
Sterilisation is the process of completely taking away the body’s ability to reproduce through surgery or minimal invasion.
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THE PILL
The pill is a small tablet containing hormones that must be swallowed every day, at the same time.
