CHAPTER 16 - Spermicides and Diaphragms

Key Points for Providers and Clients
Spermicides are placed deep in the vagina shortly before sex. Require correct use with every act of sex for greatest effectiveness. One of the least effective contraceptive methods. Can be used as a primary method or as a backup method.

What Are Spermicides?

Sperm-killing substances inserted deep in the vagina, near the cervix, before sex.
- Nonoxynol-9 is most widely used.
- Others include benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine, menfegol, octoxynol-9, and sodium docusate.
Available in foaming tablets, melting or foaming suppositories, cans of pressurized foam, melting film, jelly, and cream.
- Jellies, creams, and foam from cans can be used alone, with a diaphragm, or with condoms.
- Films, suppositories, foaming tablets, or foaming suppositories can be used alone or with condoms.
Work by causing the membrane of sperm cells to break, killing them or slowing their movement. This keeps sperm from meeting an egg.