Chemical contraceptives or spermicides

Definition of spermicide

Spermicides are on the list of "chemical" contraceptive methods. These are gels, sprays, creams or suppositories / vaginal ovules that can immobilize or kill spermatozoa before they enter the uterus.

To increase the spermicidal contraceptive efficacy, it is strongly recommended to combine them with additional mechanical contraceptive methods.

Key points

Let's look at the general features. For more information, read the dedicated article.

spermicides
General characters	Advantages	Disadvantages	Protection from unwanted pregnancies
Chemicals able to immobilize / kill spermatozoa before they enter the uterus Spermicides alter sperm membrane integrity; therefore, they make them unable to fertilize the egg This contraceptive method also acts by altering the vaginal pH: in this sense, the aforementioned contraceptive method creates an environment hostile to spermatozoa	Combined with other contraceptive methods, spermicide reduces the risk coefficient (failure of contraceptive protection) No medical prescription needed Increases lubrication during intercourse It does not involve the side effects typical of hormonal contraceptive methods	Spermicide application can irritate or even damage the vaginal and rectal walls The routine use of this contraceptive method increases the risk of urinary tract infections and bacterial vaginosis It does not offer any protection from MST The effectiveness of the spermicide lasts only for 60 minutes (starting from the moment of insertion / application in the vagina) It can create allergic reactions in both partners The contraceptive method requires a certain "programming" of the relationship	When used alone, spermicide is not considered a reliable contraceptive method, as it protects against unwanted pregnancies in only 71% of cases