Spermicide?!


Question:

Spermicide?

Hi.
I just had my baby six weeks ago tomorrow and I got the AOK from my doc to resume sex. I bought some spermicide because we tried condoms but neither of us have ever used condoms since we have been married and they just plain old sucked lol. I was just wondering who has used it before and how well it worked for them. He is also pulling out to be extra careful. Any input good or bad is greatly appreciated! Thanks

Additional Details

2 weeks ago
The set came with an applicator and I use it before we have sex and he also pulls out. I go to the doctor in about a weeks, so i will talk to her too, but was just wanting some info prior to the visit.


Answers:

Spermicide, used by itself, is only 71% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies, with typical use, and up to 85% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies with perfect use. It doesn't protect from STDs, which shouldn't be a concern for you and your husband. Combined with the withdrawal (or "pull-out") method, it will be more effective (withdrawal method is between 73 and 96% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies, with the couples who have been together for a longer period of time typically using it the most effectively).

When I tried to use it, it honestly burned my vaginal tissue and I become quite itchy (I tried strips, mousse and gel, as well as condoms with spermicide on them). So, my personal experiences are not much to compare to, but that doesn't mean that it isn't a perfectly good option for another woman/couple.

I tried the condoms too, and they absolutely do suck. I'm assuming you're not wanting to go on a hormonal method because you just had your baby? Are you breastfeeding possibly? If you don't want to use a hormonal method right now, and are looking for a short term option, you could talk to your doctor about getting fitted for a diaphragm, or you could try the Today sponge, which is available over the counter, and combines the use of a sponge and spermicide. Of course, the diaphragm (or the similar cap or shield) are more effective than the sponge (diaphragms, caps and shields are between 84 and 94% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy), the sponge may be a better short-term option.

This is what Planned Parenthood has to say about the Today sponge:

"How the Sponge Works

The sponge is first moistened with water and then inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It covers the cervix and blocks sperm from entering the uterus. It also continuously releases a spermicide that immobilizes sperm, preventing it from joining an egg.

How Well the Sponge Works

Sixteen out of 100 women who have never given birth and use the sponge will become pregnant during the first year of typical use. Nine will become pregnant with perfect use. Of 100 women who have given birth and use the sponge, 32 will become pregnant during the first year of typical use. Twenty will become pregnant with perfect use."

If you're looking for a long-term, non-hormonal birth control option, I would look into ParaGard, which is an IUD, that is just as effective as other hormonal birth control methods (to read about ParaGard and IUDs, click on the last link in my sources box).




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