Spermicide
Written by Jane Carrasco
What Is Spermicide?
Spermicide is a birth control method that contains chemicals that keep sperm from moving so they cannot reach the egg. They are available in different forms, including creams, film, foams, gels, and suppositories and they can be used alone, or in conjunction with other birth control methods to make them more effective. It is always used with the diaphragm and cervical cap.
The benefits to using spermicide include the ability to purchase easily without any prescription at your local drug store. Spermicides are safe and have no major side effects and can enhance your sexual experience providing lubrication for increased pleasure. However, spermicides do increase the risk of painful urinary tract infections in women and STD infection. The pregnancy rate is higher when spermicide is used alone, 29 out of 100 women will become pregnant each year. But, those odds are better than having no protection at all.
WARNING!
Spermicides on the market today contain Nonoxynol-9 which was once thought to help prevent HIV infection. New studies are showing that instead, spermicides put women at a higher risk of HIV infection. Nonoxynol-9 kills cells, unfortunately not just the HIV cells, but it also kills the good cells that protect and line the cervix. When the cervix becomes irritated, the immune system sends out antibodies to this site. The HIV then attacks the antibodies in the cervix, which is the main site for HIV infection, and are able to invade the body. New and improved spermicides are in the making, Until that time, DO NOT USE SPERMICIDE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM HIV/AIDS.
Disclaimer
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. The content provided is intended strictly for informational purposes to help patient understanding of medical terms and conditions.