What is it?

Spermicides are chemicals that destroy sperm.  They are available as a gel, foam, film, or suppository and are placed in the vagina near the cervix as a form of birth control.

Recommended: To increase protection against pregnancy, use Spermicide with condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, and sponges.

How does it work?

Before intercourse (sex), a women will apply spermicide high into her vagina (men can also apply spermicide directly onto a condom).  When the spermicide comes into contact with sperm during intercourse (sex), the chemical kills the sperm before it as the chance to enter the uterus and fertilize an egg (resulting in pregnancy)

Remember, Spermicides protect against pregnancy but they DO NOT protect you from all types of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (e.g. HIV)

How effective is it?

Spermicide is 79% effective in preventing pregnancy

 Possible Side Effects

• Irritation at entrance of vagina or tip of penis
• Allergic reaction to the chemical in spermicide (nonoxynol-9)

Health Benefits of Spermicides

• Reduces the risk for pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and cervical cancer in women
• Reduces the risk of getting bacterial infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea
• Offers lubrication to decrease the likelihood (chance) of condom tears / breakage
• Can be used in emergency situations to reduce the risk of pregnancy (dislocation of cervical cap, condom breakage, etc.)

Important points

• Apply more Spermicide after each act of intercourse.
• Each Spermicide is different so it is important to read the instructions that come with them to indicate when it becomes effective and for how long.
• Spermicides are available without a prescription in drugstores and at the Health Unit.

For additional information on Spermicides or other questions related to sexual health contact the Windsor Essex County Health Unit at (519) 258-2146 ext 1200 or 1201

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2000). Sex Sense:

Canadian Contraceptive Guide. Ottawa, ON.

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2000). Choosing a

contraceptive that’s right for you…. Ottawa, ON.

Limburg, J. Middlesex-London Health Unit. (1998) Birth Control Options. London, ON.

Reviewed April 25, 2007

T:  Sexual Health/Fact Sheets/Birth Control Options