Talking to your kids about sex can be daunting, no matter how
close you are. But discussing issues like abstinence,
sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
, and birth control can help lower teens' risk of an
unintended pregnancy
or contracting an STD.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) supports sex education
that includes information about both abstinence and birth control.
Research has shown that this information doesn't increase
kids' level of sexual activity, but actually promotes and
increases the proper use of birth control methods among sexually
active teens.
How and when you discuss sex and birth control is up to you.
Providing the facts is vital, but it's also wise to tell your
kids where you stand. Remember, by approaching these issues
like any other health topics, not as something dirty or
embarrassing, you increase the odds that your kids will
feel comfortable coming to you with any questions and
problems. As awkward as it might feel, answer questions honestly.
And if you don't know the answers, it's OK to say so, then
find out and report back.
If you have questions about how to talk with your son or
daughter about sex, consider consulting your doctor. Lots of
parents find this tough to tackle, and a doctor may offer some
helpful perspective.
What Is Spermicide?
Spermicides come in several different forms: cream, gel, foam,
film, and suppositories. Most spermicides contain nonoxynol-9, a
chemical that kills sperm. Spermicides can be used alone but are
more effective when used with another method of birth control, such
as a
condom
or
diaphragm
.
How Does Spermicide Work?
Spermicides immobilize and kill the sperm before they are able
to swim into the uterus. To be effective, the spermicide must be
placed deep in the vagina close to the cervix. Creams, gels, and
foams are squirted into the vagina using an applicator. Other types
of spermicides include vaginal contraceptive film (VCF), a thin
sheet placed in the back of vagina by hand, and vaginal
suppositories.
Spermicides must be placed in the vagina before sexual
intercourse. Some offer protection right away but most must be
placed in the vagina at least 15 minutes before sex so they have
enough time to dissolve and spread. All forms of spermicides are
only effective for 1 hour after they are inserted.Another
application of spermicide is needed if more than 1 hour passes
before sex, as well as before repeated sex. Douche should not be
used for at least 6 hours after sex with spermicide use.
How Well Does Spermicide Work?
Over the course of a year, about 29 out of 100 typical couples
who rely on spermicide alone to prevent pregnancy will have an
accidental pregnancy. Of course, this is an average figure and the
chance of getting pregnant depends on whether spermicide is used
correctly and consistently.
Spermicides are not as effective on their own as other types of
birth control and work best when used in combination with another
form of birth control. However, they are convenient, inexpensive,
and easy to use.
Protection Against STDs
Spermicide does not protect against STDs. Couples
having sex must always use condoms to protect against
STDs.
Abstinence (not having sex) is the only method that always
prevents pregnancy and STDs.
Possible Side Effects
Spermicides may irritate the vagina and surrounding skin.
Another possible side effect is recurrent urinary tract infections
because the spermicide can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria
in a girl's body.
Who Uses Spermicide?
Couples who can take responsibility for planning birth control
in advance of having sex and those using condoms or other barrier
methods of contraception who want extra protection against
pregnancy use spermicides.
Where Is Spermicide Available?
Spermicides are available without a prescription and are found
in drugstores and some supermarkets. (In some stores, they're
in the "Family Planning" aisle.) They're often found
near the condoms and feminine hygiene products. Care should be
taken when choosing a spermicide - the packages may look like those
of some feminine hygiene products, such as douches or washes, which
don't provide
any
birth control protection at all.
How Much Does Spermicide Cost?
Depending on the type of spermicide chosen (film is more
expensive than gel), spermicide costs only about $0.50 to $1.50 per
use.
Reviewed by:
Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: January 2007
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2009 The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth. All rights reserved.