A spermicide is a chemical product used for birth control. It contains chemicals that kill sperm. They are available in most drugstores withoug a prescription and come in a number of forms, such as foams, jellies, and creams. A spermicide is inserted into a woman's vagina before sexual intercourse. It destroys the sperm in a man's semen before the sperm reach the uterus.
Spermicides are somewhat unreliable when used alone to prevent pregnancy.
They work better when they are used with another barrier form of birth control, such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, or condom. Before intercourse, the spermicide is inserted into the upper part of the vagina with a special applicator. If intercourse is repeated, another dosage of spermicide must be used. The amount of time it takes for a spermicide to become effective varies from brand to brand. That makes it especially important to read the package instructions carefully before using.