Contraceptive Sponges: A Guide for Teens

Contraceptive Sponges:

A Guide for Teens

Image of Contraceptive Sponge The contraceptive sponge is a vaginal barrier method that prevents pregnancy by keeping sperm from fertilizing an egg that your ovaries produce each month. The sponge does not protect you from STDs. To lessen the risk of getting an STD, a condom should always be used. Women who are allergic to nonoxynol-9 should not use any vaginal barrier method that contains this spermicide.

Out of 100 women using contraceptive sponges

Typical use: 13 women become pregnant

Perfect use: 9 women become pregnant

What is the contraceptive sponge?

The contraceptive sponge is a small, donut-shaped foam sponge that contains a a spermicide called Nonoxynol-9. It is a nonhormonal vaginal barrier method of birth control that is fairly easy to insert.

How does the contraceptive sponge work?

After it is placed in the vagina, the sponge prevents pregnancy by releasing a spermicide called Nonoxynol-9. This spermicide works by killing or paralyzing sperm that comes into the vagina. A "dimple" on one side of the sponge fits over your cervix to form a barrier to sperm, to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. The dimple also lowers the chances that the sponge will move out of place during sexual intercourse. The other side of the sponge has a loop for easy removal. There is only one size sponge.

Will my partner or I be able to feel the sponge?

The sponge is soft and once inserted properly (see insertion instructions http://www.todaysponge.com/faq.htm) you or your partner should not be able to feel it. If it feels uncomfortable, it may not be inserted the right way. If this happens, slowly and gently reposition the sponge deep into your vagina until it covers your cervix but be careful not to push your fingernail through it! You should be able to feel the loop.

Where will I be able to get the contraceptive sponge?

You will probably be able to get it in most drug stores. You don't need a prescription. You can find out what stores carry the sponge online at www.todaysponge.com.us. They are approximately $2-3.00 each and come 3-12 in a package.

The contraceptive sponge was recently reapproved to be sold in the United States and Canada. It will soon be available again in the UK and EU.

How do I use the contraceptive sponge?

Wash your hands first. Remove the sponge from the package it comes in and wet it with two tablespoons of clean water. Squeeze the sponge once. Then insert the sponge into your vagina by sliding it along the back wall until it is up against your cervix. The dimple side of the sponge should face your cervix and the loop should face away from your cervix. Make sure that you feel the sponge covering your cervix. You can insert the sponge just before intercourse OR several hours ahead of time. You can have some protection against pregnancy for a total of 24 hours, no matter how many times you have sexual intercourse.

Leave the sponge inside of you for at least 6 hours after you have finished having intercourse, but no more than a total of 30 hours. Before you remove the sponge, wash your hands and take hold of the loop on the sponge with one finger. Pull on the loop gently to remove the sponge. Make sure that the sponge is in one piece after you have removed it. Then throw it away. If it's torn, you should remove all the pieces from your vagina. If you have any concerns that the sponge isn't in one piece, contact your health care provider.

Douching is not recommended because it can contribute to pelvic infections. However, if you must douche, wait at least 6 hours after you have finished having intercourse so the spermicide does not get washed away.

How effective is the contraceptive sponge against pregnancy?

The contraceptive sponge may be less effective against pregnancy for women that have already had a baby. The contraceptive sponge is 87% effective with typical use. This means that if 100 women use the contraceptive sponge, 13 women will become pregnant in a year with typical use.

Does the contraceptive sponge protect against STDs?

No, The sponge does not protect against STDs. In fact, spermicides are not recommended for women who have multiple daily acts of intercourse because the irritation may increase the risk of acquiring HIV.

Can I be allergic to the contraceptive sponge?

Allergy is uncommon but some women may be allergic to the spermicide that is in the sponge or the polyurethane foam or preservative. If you use the sponge and experience any localized (in or around your vagina) burning, itching, redness, rash or irritation, stop using the sponge and contact your doctor. Additionally, talk to your doctor before using the sponge if either you or your partner is allergic to Sulfa drugs.

Should I use any other type of contraception with the contraceptive sponge?

It is best to use a male condom when you are using the contraceptive sponge. This will increase the effectiveness against pregnancy and lessen your chance of getting a STD.

Is there anything else I should know?

Women who use the contraceptive sponge or other barrier methods of birth control should be aware of the very low risk of getting toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The contraceptive sponge should not be used during menstruation, immediately after childbirth or after a miscarriage.

Written by the Center for Young Women's Health Staff

Updated : 5/11/06

Related Information:

Out of 100 women using contraceptive sponges
Typical use: 13 women become pregnant
Perfect use: 9 women become pregnant