Where to buy contraceptive foam

This article explores what spermicide is in more detail, the different forms a person can use, and the companies that stock them. It also explores some frequently asked questions and alternative products. Spermicide is a type of barrier contraception that prevents sperm from reaching an egg. Most spermicides contain the chemical nonoxynol-9 , which damages sperm.

Typically, an individual inserts spermicide in their vagina, where it forms a barrier that slows and kills sperm, preventing it from entering the uterus. It is available without a prescription and comes in different forms, such as creams, foams, gels, films, and suppositories. Evidence suggests that when people use it alone, spermicides are among the least effective types of birth control.

Therefore, many experts recommend using other forms of barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragms, in addition to spermicides. Additionally, it is advisable that individuals use spermicides and condoms together, as spermicides alone do not provide any protection against sexually transmitted infections STIs. Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based. A spermicidal film, or vaginal contraceptive film VCF , consists of a thin sheet of film that an individual folds in quarters and in half again before inserting into the vagina.

It acts as a barrier that absorbs vaginal secretions, and as a result, it melts into a thick gel. People should insert the film at least 15 minutes before engaging in sexual intercourse.

The pharmacy recommends individuals ensure their hands are dry before inserting the film and use only one piece before each act of intercourse. According to the CVS Pharmacy website, individuals should see a medical professional if they experience irritation or burning in their genital area. Contraceptive foams come in aerosol cans and an applicator.

People need to shake the can first then fill the applicator with the spermicide. They then insert it into the vagina and push the plunger to release the foam. Foams are immediately active, and individuals should insert them less than 1 hour prior to sexual intercourse. Walmart stocks a vaginal contraceptive foam that contains 13 applications. It weighs 0. These are solid forms of concentrated spermicide that melt into a foam after insertion inside the vagina.

People should use a new insert every time they engage in sexual intercourse. Those who use spermicidal suppositories should wait 10—15 minutes before having sex to allow the product to melt. Online companies that offer vaginal suppositories and tablets for contraception use include Instacart. The package comes with 12 individually wrapped inserts.

According to the label, the inserts do not cause any hormonal side effects. Instacart also has a smartphone app that is available for Apple and Android devices. Before using a spermicide, it is advisable for people to check the expiry date and carefully read any instructions regarding how to use it, when to use it, and how long it is effective.

Generally, individuals should attempt to insert spermicide into the vagina, close to the cervix, roughly 10—15 minutes before sexual intercourse.

The insertion method may vary slightly with different forms of spermicide, but they typically come with an applicator, so people can lie down, squat, or put one foot on a chair and insert it.

Most spermicides are only effective for 1 hour after insertion. A person should also reinsert spermicide for each act of penetrative sex. It is also advisable that people use spermicide together with another barrier form of birth control, such as a condom. Some benefits of spermicides include the below. Most spermicides are also cheaper than other birth control methods and are available in many stores. Spermicides do not offer protection against STIs. With this in mind, it is advisable to use spermicide together with condoms, as this can reduce the transmission risk of STIs and also reduce the chance of pregnancy.

Spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can irritate the genital area if a person uses it several times a day on sensitive skin. To use, twist the applicator onto the end of the tube. Fill with the cream or gel. Twist off the applicator and insert it into the vagina close to the cervix.

Press the plunger to release. Gels and creams work best when used right before sex. Most should not be inserted more than 30 minutes before sex. Advantage 24 is an exception. This gel steadily releases nonoxynol One dose provides hour protection. Contraceptive creams may be less messy than other forms of spermicide. With most creams, you should have sex within 30 minutes of inserting.

The contraceptive sponge is a soft, round device about 2 inches in diameter. It is made of solid polyurethane foam. It has a nylon loop attached to the bottom for removal. Moisten the sponge with water and insert into the vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and also releases spermicide. It should be combined with other forms of birth control. Spermicide comes in a number of different forms, from foams and jellies to films, suppositories, and sponges.

Different types of spermicide have different instructions for usage. Some last longer than others or need to be inserted at different times before sex. Be sure to read the instructions before using.

A spermicide is a substance inserted into the vagina before sex that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm before they can fertilize an egg. Spermicides are usually paired with a barrier contraceptive such as a condom, diaphragm, contraceptive sponge, or cervical cap. They can, but, on their own, spermicides are not the most reliable form of birth control.

By far the most common active ingredient of spermicides is nonoxynol In May , the FDA approved a new spermicidal gel called Phexxi made with lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate. Spermicides come in many different forms. Some are inserted directly into the vagina such as spermicidal foams, creams, gels, films, or suppositories and others are infused in contraceptive sponges or pre-lubricated condoms. Nonoxynol-9, the most common spermicide, can cause vaginal inflammation and irritation.

The overuse of nonoxynol-9 can damage the delicate tissues of the vagina and actually increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. American Pregnancy Association. Spermicides used alone for contraception. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.

Evofem Biosciences. Package insert - Phexxi lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate vaginal gel. Updated May Planned Parenthood. What are the disadvantages of using spermicide? Updated Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page. These choices will be signaled globally to our partners and will not affect browsing data.

We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Table of Contents View All. Table of Contents. Inserts, Tablets, or Suppositories. Creams and Gels. Types and Benefits of Using Spermicides.

Recap Contraceptive foam should be inserted no more than 30 minutes before sex. Vaginal Contraceptive Film. Recap Contraceptive inserts and tablets turn into a foamy substance after insertion. Using a Diaphragm for Birth Control. Recap Contraceptive creams may be less messy than other forms of spermicide.

Should You Use the Today Sponge? Frequently Asked Questions What is a spermicide? Can spermicides alone prevent pregnancy? What chemicals are used in spermicides? What types of spermicide are there? Can spermicides cause side effects?

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