Contraceptive

Contraceptive Foam

What Foam is?

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.

Highlights

Effectiveness

Among typical couples who initiate use of vaginal spermicidal, about 25% will experience an accidental pregnancy in the first year. If vaginal spermicidals are used consistently and correctly, about 6% of couples will become pregnant.

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
	Foam reduces the risk of getting some sexually transmitted diseases.

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.

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 can be unpleasant.

Usage

Some brands of spermicidal foam are sold in pre-measured, ready-to-use applicators. If the foam is sold in a separate container, shake the can of foam well before using (about 20 times). Follow the package instructions for filling the applicator.

Gently insert the applicator completely into the vagina, then withdraw it about one-half inch. Depress the plunger fully, then withdraw it.

Two full applicators of foam should be inserted no more than 1/2 hour before each act of intercourse. If a condom is used in addition to the foam, only one full applicator of foam is necessary.

After intercourse, a mini-pad or a panty-liner may be used if the foam drips out. If you decide to douche, wait at least eight hours after intercourse before doing so.

Practice putting foam into your vagina in advance. This will make it easier at the time of intercourse.

Complete information about this contraceptive is available from your clinician or from the package insert accompanying the foam.

Foam is sold at most drugstores and some supermarkets.

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