Spermicides are readily available without a doctor's prescription and are easy to use. Look for those that contain nonoxynol 9, which gives added protection against sexually transmitted disease. The biggest drawback of spermicides is their low effectiveness when used alone. This is particularly true of jelly and cream, but even foam and suppositories prevent pregnancy only about 79 percent of the time. For this reason, couples who need highly effective contraception should combine spermicide with another method, such as a condom, diaphragm, or cervical cap.
Some people are allergic to spermicides.
If you experience burning or irritation in the genital area after using one, consult your doctor. You may need to switch brands or use another form of birth control. Healthsquare is solely to be used as an informational resource and should never be used to replace contact with your licensed healthcare provider.