All about Spermicidal cream

Spermicidal cream is a contraceptive method that is designed to immobilize or kill sperm cells, thus preventing them from reaching and fertilizing a woman's egg. It is usually made of a chemical substance called nonoxynol-9 (N-9), which acts as a surfactant that disrupts the sperm cell's membrane and renders it inactive. The cream is applied inside the vagina before sexual intercourse, usually with an applicator.

Spermicidal cream is a convenient and affordable form of birth control that does not require a prescription or a medical procedure. It can be purchased over-the-counter at most drugstores or pharmacies. It is also safe for most women to use and does not have any long-term side effects.

However, spermicidal cream is not the most effective form of contraception, with a failure rate of around 28% per year when used alone. This means that for every 100 women who use spermicidal cream as their only form of contraception for a year, around 28 will become pregnant. Therefore, it is recommended to use spermicidal cream in combination with other methods, such as condoms or a diaphragm, to increase its effectiveness.

How to use Spermicidal cream?

Spermicidal cream is a type of contraceptive that is designed to immobilize or kill sperm, preventing them from fertilizing an egg. Here are the general steps to follow when using spermicidal cream:

1.Wash your hands thoroughly before using the cream.

2.Apply the cream to the applicator that comes with the product. Usually, the applicator will have a plunger that you can use to dispense the cream.

3.Insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it can comfortably go. The applicator should be positioned against the cervix, which is the opening to the uterus.

4.Push the plunger to release the cream into your vagina.

5.Remove the applicator and discard it in the trash.

6.Wait 10-15 minutes before engaging in sexual activity to allow the cream to spread and take effect.

It's important to read the instructions that come with your specific spermicidal cream product and follow them carefully. Some products may have slightly different application instructions, so it's important to read the label before use. Additionally, it's important to remember that spermicidal cream should not be used as the sole method of contraception, as it is not as effective as other methods such as condoms and hormonal contraceptives. Also, some people may have an allergic reaction to spermicidal creams, so it's important to monitor your body for any adverse reactions. If you experience any discomfort or irritation, discontinue use and speak to a healthcare provider.

Side effects of Spermicidal cream 

It is generally considered to be a safe and effective method of contraception, there are some potential side effects that users may experience.

Some common side effects of spermicidal cream include:

1. Irritation or burning: The chemicals in spermicidal cream can cause irritation or burning sensations in the vagina, which may be uncomfortable or painful.

2. Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the active ingredients in spermicidal cream, which can cause itching, redness, or swelling of the genital area.

3. Increased risk of STIs: Spermicidal cream can irritate the vaginal lining, making it more susceptible to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

4. Increased risk of UTIs: Spermicidal cream can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs).

5. Decreased effectiveness with repeated use: Spermicidal cream may become less effective with repeated use, which can increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.

If you experience any of these side effects, you should stop using spermicidal cream and speak with your healthcare provider about alternative forms of contraception.

Advantages:

1. Convenient: Spermicidal cream is easy to use and can be applied directly to the cervix or placed inside the vagina with an applicator.

2. Effective: When used correctly, spermicidal cream can be effective in preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to note that it is not as effective as other forms of birth control, such as hormonal contraceptives or condoms.

3. Can be used with other methods: Spermicidal cream can be used in conjunction with other forms of birth control, such as condoms or diaphragms, to increase their effectiveness.

4. Does not require a prescription: Spermicidal cream is available over-the-counter and does not require a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Disadvantages:

1. Irritation: Some people may experience irritation or allergic reactions to the chemicals in spermicidal cream. This can lead to discomfort, itching, and inflammation.

2. Messy: Spermicidal cream can be messy and may leak out of the vagina, particularly during sexual activity.

3. Not as effective as other methods: Spermicidal cream is not as effective at preventing pregnancy as other forms of birth control, such as hormonal contraceptives or condoms.

4. Does not protect against STIs: Spermicidal cream does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it should be used in conjunction with other methods to reduce the risk of STI transmission.

                                      Mayank sinha