Condoms & Spermicide

Condoms

General Information

Condoms act as a barrier between you and your partner’s body fluids (semen, blood, and saliva). When used correctly, condoms are 80-90% effective in preventing pregnancy and are up to 99% effective when used together with a spermicide, foam or other birth control (both hormonal and non-hormonal).  Condoms are the most effective contraceptive against HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They can be used during vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse.  They can be used by pregnant and postpartum women to protect themselves and their babies against STIs and HIV.  Most condoms are latex, many are lubricated (nonoxynol-9 spermicidal lubrication provides added protection from pregnancy).  Non-latex condoms are available if you are allergic to latex.

Using Condoms

• Check the expiration date
• Carefully open the packaging – do not use your teeth as you may tear the condom.
• Put the condom on the erect penis before the penis comes in contact with the partner's genitals. Even a small amount of pre-ejaculate can cause pregnancy.
• Pinch the tip of the condom as you prepare to roll it onto the head of the penis.  Air left in the tip of the condom can contribute to tearing and breaking.
• Roll the condom all the way down to the base of the erect penis.
• Wait until the vagina or anus is well lubricated – a condom can tear if the penetrated area is dry.  Remember, it can take up to 20 minutes for a woman's vagina to lubricate during sexual arousal.   
• Extra lubrication can be used including: water, saliva, K-Y jelly, Astroglide, contraceptive foam, gel, or cream.  Do not use petroleum-based products, as they can cause the condom to break.
• After ejaculation withdraw the penis from the vagina, anus, or mouth immediately while holding the rim of the condom against the base of the penis to prevent spilling semen.
• Check the condom to be sure it is not torn. 
• If the condom tears:
• Quickly insert spermicidal foam or gel into the vagina, reducing the possibility of pregnancy.
• Use Plan B emergency contraception as soon as possible. 

Storing Condoms

• Store in a cool, dry place and use within two years of the manufacture date and before the expiration date.
• Don't store condoms in a place that becomes very hot (like a back pocket, or in the car) as heat (even body heat) may cause the rubber to weaken. 
• Avoid storing condoms in extremely cold places, in direct sunlight, or fluorescent light.

Caution

Medicated suppositories will cause condoms to break down.  Use another form of birth control or abstain from sex while you are using such suppositories. 

Spermicide

Before Intercourse:

• Be prepared: make sure you have all the supplies you will need. 
• Foam, cream, or jelly will need a plastic applicator. 
• If you are using foam, keep an extra container available.  It may be difficult to tell when your current container is running low.
• Read package instructions: be sure you understand the time rules for your product.
• Plan ahead: find a time that is comfortable for you to insert your method.
• Foam is effective immediately. 
• If you are using suppositories, cream, jelly, or film, a short waiting period between insertion and intercourse is essential to allow the product to melt and spread inside your vagina.  The package will instruct on the               exact amount of time. 
• One dose of spermicide remains effective for one hour.  A new dose of spermicide is necessary if a longer time has passed, or if you have intercourse again. 
• Spermicide should be used every time you have intercourse.  It should be in place before your partner's penis penetrates your vagina.
• Always use condoms along with your choice of spermicide.  This not only increases the effectiveness of the birth control protection but also reduces your risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Insertion:

• Wash your hands carefully with soap and water.
• Foam: Shake the container vigorously at least 20 times.  Use the nozzle to fill the plastic applicator.
• Jelly or cream: Squeeze the spermicide tube to fill the applicator.  Insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it will comfortably go.  Hold the applicator still and push the plunger to release the jelly or cream. The spermicide should be next to your cervix, deep in your vagina.
• Suppository:  Remove the wrapping and slide the suppository into your vagina with your finger. Push it along the back wall of your vagina as far as you can so that it rests on or near your cervix.           
• Film: Make sure your fingers are completely dry.  Place one sheet of film on your finger tip and slide it along the back wall of your vagina as far as you can so that the film rests on or near your cervix.

• Repeated intercourse:  A new application of spermicide is essential each time you have intercourse.

After Intercourse:

• Leave spermicide in place for at least six to eight hours after intercourse.
• Douching or rinsing after is not recommended, but if you do, wait at least six to eight hours. 
• If irritation of the vagina or penis occurs, a different spermicide product may be used.  See your clinician to discuss alternate methods of birth control if irritation persists. 

Caring For Spermicide Products:

• Store your spermicide in a convenient location that is clean, cool, and dark.
• Wash your spermicide inserter after each use with plain soap and warm water.  Do not use talcum powder on your inserter.

Common Errors in Spermicide Use:

• Failing to use spermicide consistently and in conjunction with condoms each and every time intercourse occurs.
• Failing to use during period.
• Failing to wait long enough after insertion for the spermicide to spread out (for suppositories or film)
• Failing to use another applicator of spermicide if more than one hour has elapsed.
• Using too little spermicide or foam
• Failing to shake the foam can vigorously enough.

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