Spermicide

SPERMICIDE

THE ADDED EXTRA.

DOESN’T ACT ALONE

Spermicides aren't very effective when used on their own, and are best combined with a barrier method such as a condom or a diaphragm. There are many different types available, from foams to creams and pastes, but they all work in much the same way. Chemicals in spermicides make it difficult for sperm to move in the vagina.

Since spermicides are best used with another form of birth control, the directions on how to use them will depend on the barrier method they are applied to. The important thing is to pay close attention to the spermicide's expiry date, and to leave it in the vagina for at least 6 hours after you've had sex. Some people experience allergic reactions or irritation caused by the chemicals in spermicide, so if you have any questions or concerns about spermicide, consult your doctor or nurse.

Spermicide

HOW IT MEASURES UP

72% 72%

72%
EF­FI­CACY WITH TYP­I­CAL USE

Spermicides are self-administered and bought over the counter. They shouldn't be used alone, and they require a little planning and a little care to use. They are less effective than other methods of birth control.

View 'Perfect' Use Efficacy Rate
 

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82% 82%

82%
EF­FI­CACY WITH PERFECT USE

Spermicides are self-administered and bought over the counter. Their efficacy rises when they are combined with a barrier method such as a condom or a diaphragm. When used perfectly, they can be effective at preventing pregnancy.

View 'Typical' Use Efficacy Rate

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HORMONES

No. Spermicide is hormone-free, but does contain chemicals.

EASE OF USE

Spermicide needs to be applied prior to intercourse, each time you have sex.

YOUR PERIOD

Spermicide has no impact on your period.

COMPARE METHODS
MyContraception-Woman
FAQ Questionmark

Can spermicide be used on its own?

It is recommended to use spermicide with a barrier method such as a diaphragm. Spermicide isn't the most effective when used on its own.

FAQ Questionmark

Is spermicide suitable for everyone?

Spermicide can be used by everyone, but some people experience irritation, allergic reactions, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

FAQ Questionmark

Do I really have to wait the indicated time after intercourse?

Yes. You usually need to leave the barrier method and spermicide in place for 6 to 8 hours after sex. The vagina should not be washed or douched for at least 6 hours after sex. Instructions can vary depending on the kind of spermicide or the type of barrier method used, so it is important to read and follow directions carefully, and pay attention to expiry dates.

FAQ Questionmark

Can I use soap after I’ve used spermicide?

You can have a shower or a wash after sex, but depending on the type of spermicide you used, the soap or body wash may interact and affect its efficacy. Make sure that you carefully read and follow the directions on your spermicide.

FAQ Questionmark

What are the side effects of spermicide?

Some people do experience side effects from spermicides. In rare instances, they may experience the symptoms of toxic shock syndrome, or toxic shock syndrome itself. Seek urgent medical attention if you believe you are experiencing any side effects. Other mild side effects include skin rash, redness, irritation, or itching.

FAQ Questionmark

Does spermicide also come as a cream?

Yes, spermicide is also available as a cream.

FAQ Questionmark

Do all condoms contain spermicides?

No. Some contain spermicides but not all. It’s important to check the condom packaging before use.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

Start preparing for the next appointment with your doctor or nurse today!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

5-90
MINUTES1

How soon before sex spermicide should be placed in the vagina.

19062

The year that the first spermicidal jelly was invented by Friedrich Merz.2

ALWAYS
+1

Spermicides work best when used in conjunction with a diaphragm, cervical cap or condom.

PROS

  • Hormone-free – it can be an option for people who experience unwanted effects from hormones.3
  • Self-administered – no need for a doctor or nurse, you are in control.3,4
  • Stop at any time and return your ability to get pregnant right away.4
  • Affordable and easy to use.3,4
  • Accessible in most stores.3,4
  • Easy to carry around.4
  • Lubricant and birth control – in one go!3
  • Affordable and easy to use.3,4
  • Accessible in most stores.3,4
  • Easy to carry around.4
  • Lubricant and birth control – in one go!3

CONS

  • Not so effective on its own – it should be combined with other birth control methods to reach a good level of efficacy.3,4
  • No protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).3
  • Can increase the risk of HIV and other STIs with repeated use.3,5
  • Must be used every time you have sex, and at least some time before. So sex cannot always be spontaneous.3
  • May cause an allergic reaction in some people, which can lead to redness, burning or itching of the vagina or penis. 4,5
  • May increase the risk of yeast or bladder infections.6
  • Can be a little messy.5
  • Must be used every time you have sex, and at least some time before. So sex cannot always be spontaneous.3
  • May cause an allergic reaction in some people, which can lead to redness, burning or itching of the vagina or penis. 4,5
  • May increase the risk of yeast or bladder infections.6
  • Can be a little messy.5

NEED MORE ADVICE?

Get ready to speak to a doctor. Use a 3-step guide to prepare for your next appointment.

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References

  • FDA Office of Women’s Health. Birth Control Guide. 2022 (p. 9). https://www.fda.gov/media/150299/download [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content
  • Fogarty L. What Birth Control Was Like In Every Decade Since The 1990s. 2017. https://www.redbookmag.com/body/pregnancy-fertility/g4283/what-birth-control-was-like-in-every-decade/ [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content
  • Cleveland Clinic. Spermicide. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22493-spermicide [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content
  • American Pregnancy Association. Spermicide. https://americanpregnancy.org/unplanned-pregnancy/birth-control-pills-patches-and-devices/spermicide-2/ [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content
  • Planned Parenthood. What are the disadvantages of using Spermicide? https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/spermicide/what-are-disadvantages-using-spermicide [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content
  • My Health Alberta. Vaginal Spermicides. https://myhealth.alberta.ca/sexual-reproductive-health/birth-control/non-hormonal-birth-control/vaginal-spermicides [Accessed March 2023]. Return to content

Is It Okay?

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

THE
IUS

The Hor­monal Coil is a small, soft T-shaped plas­tic frame that re­leases low lev­els of a prog­estin hor­mone for up to 3 to 6 years. It is given with a pre­scrip­tion and placed in your womb by a doc­tor or nurse.

Image of an IUS

THE
IUD

The Hor­monal Coil is a small, soft T-shaped plas­tic frame that re­leases low lev­els of a prog­estin hor­mone for up to 3 to 5 years. It is given with a pre­scrip­tion and placed in your womb by a doc­tor or nurse.

Image of an IUD

THE
IMPLANT

A small, flexible silicone rod that releases hormones for up to 3 to 5 years. It is given with a prescription and placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse.

Image of the Implant

THE
PILL

A small tablet containing one hormone, or a combined pill containing two hormones, that is self-administered with a prescription and needs to be swallowed at the same time each day.

Image of birth control pills

THE
INJECTION

A shot containing hormone(s) that is given with a prescription and administered by a doctor or nurse every 1 or 3 months.

Image of an Injection

THE
PATCH

A small, thin, skin-colored plastic square that sticks to the skin and releases hormones. It is given with a prescription and can be self-administered once a week.

Image of the Patch

THE
DI­APHRAGM

A silicone cup placed in the vagina that prevents sperm from reaching the womb. Though some are fitted by a doctor or nurse, most are self-administered with a prescription up to 24 hours before sex.

Image of a Diaphragm

THE
RING

A small, flexible ring that is self-administered with a prescription and placed in the vagina, where it releases hormones for 3 weeks.

Image of a Ring

THE
FEMALE CONDOM

An internal condom that works in the same way male condoms do, though it is placed in the vagina. It is self-administered and bought over the counter.

Image of Female Condom

THE
MALE CONDOM

A sheath placed over the erect penis to stop sperm from reaching the vagina, it is also the only method that helps lower the risk of STIs. It is self-administered and bought over the counter.

Image of a Male Condom

THE
SPONGE

A small, round piece of foam with a nylon loop that is placed in the vagina right before intercourse. It is bought over the counter and is self-administered.

Image of a Sponge

NATURAL
PLANNING

Self-directed methods of avoiding pregnancy that include menstrual cycle tracking and body temperature measurements to identify fertile days.

Natural Planning

SPERMICIDE

Creams, films, foams, gels and suppositories that contain chemicals to stop or kill sperm. These are bought over the counter and are self-administered.

Image of spermicide

WITHDRAWAL

Also known as ‘the pull-out method’, this self-directed method involves withdrawing the penis prior to ejaculation to avoid pregnancy.

Image of a timer for the withdrawal method

MALE
STERILIZATION

A medical procedure performed by a doctor or nurse that blocks the tubes carrying sperm.

Icon representing male sterilization

FEMALE
STERILIZATION

A medical procedure performed by a doctor or nurse that blocks the fallopian tubes and removes the possibility of pregnancy.

Icon representing female sterilization
COMPARE METHODS

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Last updated on 21/02/2020

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