Live Life Team
Many vaginal spermicides are available for over the counter purchase. But how are they used and how effective are they against the prevention of pregnancy and STDs, Read here to learn how these methods of birth control are used and how effective they are so that you can stay well informed and make educated decisions.
All of the vaginal spermicides currently available are used by inserting them into the vagina. Some of them dissolve over a period of time while others can be effective immediately. All spermicides should be used with other forms of birth control, such as a condom, female condom or cervical barrier due to their low effectiveness rate. Spermicides are not preventative measures against the transmission of venereal disease.
One of the most important things to remember about vaginal spermicides is that they must be reapplied before each act of intercourse. All vaginal spermicides come with specific directions as to how they are supposed to be used. Some variations of vaginal spermicides include foam, jelly, cream, and suppositories. These all contain agents that will kill the sperm. Some contraceptives also contain spermicides. The sponge and the vaginal contraceptive foam are two such forms of contraception.
Again, keep in mind that spermicides were not intended to be used on their own, but as an extra mode of protection while using other forms of contraceptions. The best form of preventing pregnancy and the transmission of sexual disease remains to abstain from sexual intercourse.
