• Covers cervix (opening to uterus).
• Spermicide kills sperm in vagina.
  
   

• Comes in the form of foam, cream, jelly, film, vaginal inserts, or on a vaginal sponge.
• Water-based spermicides can be added to the surface of a condom for extra protection against pregnancy.
• Inserted into vagina no more than 20 minutes before sexual intercourse.
• Must be inserted before each act of intercourse.
  
   

• No major health concerns.
• No exam needed.
• Spermicidal cream or jelly can be bought in a drugstore without prescription.
  
   

• Can be messy.
• Occasionally a woman or man is allergic to a brand of foam (she/he can change brands).
• May increase risk of transmission of HIV.
• Only products with the words "spermicide" or "non-oxynol-9" on the label give you protection against pregnancy.

Effectiveness

• 79% - 97% (Spermicide Alone)

• 98% - 99% (Spermicide With Condom)

• 82% - 94% (Spermicide with Diaphragm or Cervical Cap)

More information on Spermicide.