Chemical methods of contraception
Chemical contraceptives are called spermicides (sperm-killing chemicals). This method is not quite new as our grannies used lemon juice and vinegar as sperm killing contraceptives.
How do spermicides work?
Modern spermicides consist of two components chemical agent attacking sperm and a basis that provides the contact between sperm and spermicides.
Chemical means of contraception can be used by women of any age. They can be used in the period of lactation, after childbirth or after abortion.
There are the following types of chemical contraceptives:
- Jellies and creams
- Foams
- Vaginal tablets
- Suppositories
- Spongies
How to use spermicides?
You put them into your vagina before intercourse.Follow the instructions on the leaflet in the package.
The use of spermicides depends on the type of the contraceptive.
Jellies and creams can be used separately or simultaneously with a diaphragm. Creams begin to work immediatedly and are effective within an hour. If you use cream or jelly together with diaphragm, the term of its activity is up to 6 hours. What is more, the contraceptive effect grows dramatically.
Foams are more effective than jellies and creams. They are in aerosol form and should be inserted into the vagina with a special syringe. Foams begin working at once. The contraceptive effect lasts for about an hour.
Tablets and suppositories effect begins in 10-15 minutes afther insertion, because a tablet or a suppository must dissolve. Remember this fact and do not begin the intercourse until 15 minutes after the insertion have passed. The effect of these spermicides lasts not longer than an hour.
Spermicides can be used together with condoms (simultaneously) for a better protection and for sexual transmitted deseases precaution. The effectiveness of this method is up to 98 per cent.
Chemical contraceprives advantages:
You can buy them from any pharmacy without prescription
They are harmless
They can be used regularly
They can be combined with other methods of contraception ( diapragms, cups, condoms) for a better effectiveness
Spermicides are an additional lubricant
The immediate spermicids application diminishes the possibility to get pregnant if you have realized that the condom is deteriorated
Spermicides do not harm a baby if pregnancy occured.
Spermicides disadvantagies:
The necessity to wait for 15 minutes before the intercourse when using tablets and suppositories.
You cannot take a shower before about six hours after the insertion
You have to wash the suringe after each creams or foams application
Spermicides can cause some side effects such as soreness, redness and itching. If such symptoms occur, take medical advice and switch to another product or method of contraception.
Though there is no perfect method of contraception, which garantees 100% effectiveness, it is not an excuse for not using any contraceptives at all. It is up to you what method to use. You have a big choice.