What is contraceptive foam?
Foam is a vaginal spermicide which is placed into the woman's vagina using
an applicator. It has two contraceptive effects: it kills or destroys sperm
(which is why it is called "spermicidal") and it prevents sperm
from reaching the egg by blocking the opening to the cervical canal. Among
typical couples who initiate use of vaginal spermicides, about 25% will
experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. If vaginal spermicides
are used consistently and correctly, about 6% of couples will become pregnant.
Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your
clinician or from the package insert accompanying the foam.
Advantages:
- Foam gives the woman control over contraception.
- It is available over the counter without a visit to a clinician.
- Foam can be put into the vagina up to 20 minutes before sexual intercourse
and is effective immediately.
- Foam is safe. There are no hormones involved. It is immediately reversible.
- The man's penis can remain inside the vagina after ejaculation.
- Foam adds lubrication and moisture.
Disadvantages:
- Contraceptive foam can be irritating to the vagina and some people feel
that it is messy.
- It may not be protective against HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). If
protection against infection is important, use condoms.
- Practice putting foam into your vagina in advance. This will make it
easier at the time of intercourse.
- Some women do not like putting an applicator into the vagina.
- Sometimes you can't be sure if there is enough foam left in the container
to provide protection during the next act of sex. Keep an extra container
of foam handy.
- The taste of foam is unpleasant.
- The container carrying the foam is large and may be embarrassing to
carry around.
Where can I purchase foam?
You can buy foam at drug stores and supermarkets.
