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“Spermicide” describes a bunch of different creams, films, foams, gels, and suppositories that contain chemicals that stop sperm from moving. You insert it deep in your vagina, so it also keeps sperm from getting through your cervix and into your uterus.
view all methods »Spermicide works best when paired with another method, like the diaphragm or condoms. You can use spermicide to make a barrier method more effective, but it’s not very effective if used alone.
If you plan to use spermicide alone, keep in mind that the failure rate is pretty high—28% for typical use.
If you can’t make it to the doctor (or don’t want to), you can always use spermicide. It’s available at most drug stores and supermarkets. But why not pick up a pack of condoms while you’re at it?
If you get irritated using spermicide, you’re probably allergic to it. Unfortunately, all spermicides and contraceptive gels sold in the United States contain the same active ingredient, Nonoxynol-9. If you’re allergic to that, this method (and condoms with spermicidal lubricant) won’t work for you.
Nonoxynol-9 causes changes in your sensitive skin down there that can make you more susceptible to HIV. If you or your partner have HIV or haven’t been tested recently, you may want to steer clear of this method.
Don’t take our word for it. Check out the videos above to hear people talk about their experiences with spermicide.
Spermicide, let us count the ways: Gel and jelly, inserts, film, and foam. Because there are so many types of spermicidal products, and they’re all relatively comparable in availability and cost, you’re likely to find it nearby in at least one of its many forms—and for a very decent price.
Payment assistance: Check with your local family planning clinics and find out if they offer free or low cost birth control (most do).
Note: Online ranges are averaged to include taxes and standard shipping costs. Price ranges are from a survey of select online and in-store vendors as of June 2016 and will no doubt change over time.
Every type of spermicide is different, and there are a lot of them available. So be sure to read the instructions on the packaging and check the expiration date. For the most part, though, you simply insert the spermicide with your fingers or with an applicator, just like you’d insert a tampon.
After insertion, some spermicides require that you wait ten minutes before having sex. These types of spermicide are also only effective for a single hour after you put them in—so you have to get the timing right.
There are positive and negative things to say about each and every method. And everyone’s different—so what you experience may not be the same as what your friend experiences.
We’re here to get this method working better for you. And if it still doesn’t feel right, we’ve got ideas for other methods. Just remember: If you change methods, make sure you’re protected while you switch.
The irritation might be because of the brand of spermicide you’re using, so you might want to try out another kind.
If you’re allergic to Nonoxynol-9 (the main ingredient in all spermicides/contraceptive gels sold in the United States), you may need to check out another method. If you prefer something without hormones, condoms, female condoms, and the copper IUD could all be good options.
You could try switching brands and making sure you’re using your spermicide exactly as the instructions say you should. That said, spermicide is messy. If it bothers you you might want to look into another method.
Easy to find, no hormones, and no prescription needed.
Spermicide’s not so great on its own. Much better with another barrier method.
Most don’t have any problems, but you or your man could have some irritation.
Have to apply it every time you have sex.
Grab it at the store or online.
Totally depends, but will likely cost from $0 to $1.50 per time you have sex. Why the range? Get more info here.
Of those women who use spermicide exactly as directed, about 18 in 100 will experience an accidental pregnancy during the first year of using this method.
Of those women who do not use spermicide exactly as directed, about 28 in 100 will experience an accidental pregnancy during the first year of using this method.
