Birth Control: Spermicides
Spermicides help prevent pregnancy by killing sperm before they can enter the uterus. They come in many forms, including foam, jelly, film, and suppository-like inserts. These can be bought in drugstores without a prescription.
Pregnancy rates
Talk to your doctor about the effectiveness of this birth control method.
Using spermicides
For best protection against pregnancy, use spermicides with a barrier method (condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap).
Apply before there is any contact between the penis and vagina.
Check the package for instructions on how to apply.
Reapply each time you have sex.
Don't douche or use tampons for 6 to 8 hours after using a spermicide.
Pros
They're easy to get.
No prescription is needed.
Either partner can apply them, so responsibility can be shared.
They come in many forms.
They're easy to stop if you decide you want to become pregnant.
Cons
They have a high pregnancy rate when used alone.
They provide little protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
They can interrupt sex.
They may cause minor irritation of the skin or vagina.
They may taste bad.
Spermicides may not be for you
Spermicides may not be for you if:
You are not also using a barrier method.
You are allergic to spermicides.
You're not willing to interrupt sex to apply them.