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An estimated 28 out of 100 women who use spermicide alone will get pregnant in the first year of typical use. Spermicide is more effective at preventing pregnancy when used with a barrier method of birth control.

Spermicide may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Vaginal irritation — such as burning or itching or a rash — is the most common side effect of spermicide. It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to spermicide.

Spermicide doesn't offer protection from sexually transmitted infections. In fact, frequent use of spermicide may increase vaginal irritation, which may increase the risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Similarly, spermicide shouldn't be used rectally because it may cause irritation and increase the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections.

Before using spermicide, read the product instructions carefully. Consult your health care provider if you have any concerns.

Before using spermicide, read the product instructions carefully. Consult your health care provider if you have any concerns.

What you can expect

To use spermicide:

• Choose a type of spermicide. Foams, gels and creams offer immediate protection, while suppositories, films and tablets need to be inserted 10 to 30 minutes before sex to dissolve and become active. If more than one hour passes between the application of spermicide and sex, reapply spermicide.
• Apply spermicide. Find a comfortable position, such as lying down. Use an applicator or your fingers to insert spermicide into your vagina on or near your cervix. If you use an applicator, fill the applicator with the recommended amount of cream, gel or foam and insert it into your vagina as far as it will go. Push the plunger on the applicator to release the spermicide near your cervix. To insert spermicide by hand, wash and dry your hands and place the suppository, film or tablet on your fingers. Slide your fingers along the back wall of your vagina as far as you can so that the spermicide covers or rests on or near your cervix. If you're using spermicide with a diaphragm or cervical cap, follow the instructions that come with the device. If you have sex more than once, apply fresh spermicide before each sexual encounter.
• Be cautious after sex. For maximum effectiveness, make sure the spermicide remains in your vagina for at least six hours after sex. After six hours, there's no need to clean any remaining spermicide from your vagina. Douching isn't recommended — but if you choose to douche after sex, wait at least six hours.

Consult your health care provider if you have:

• Persistent vaginal irritation
• Recurring urinary tract infections