Birth Control Spermicides

Spermicides are chemical barriers to conception.
They are a reversible method of birth control, meaning that when a woman quits using them, full fertility returns.
Vaginal spermicides are available in forms such as foam, cream, jelly, film, suppository, or tablet.
Spermicides are not as effective as many other forms of birth control when used alone.
They are often used with barrier methods of birth control and are much more effective when used in this context.

Spermicides contain a chemical that kills sperm or makes them inactive so they cannot enter a woman’s cervix.
Nonoxynol-9 is the active chemical in most spermicide products in the United States.
The concentration of the chemical depends on the product.

Several brands and types of spermicides are available over the counter.
They can be obtained at drugstores, some supermarkets, and family planning clinics.
Planned Parenthood lists the cost of applicator kits for foam and gel at about $8, and refills at about $4-8. Film and suppositories are priced similarly.
In some states, the cost is covered by Medicaid when provided by clinics or authorized by a private doctor.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 7/19/2016

Medical Author:

Omnia M Samra, MD

Medical Editor:

Suzanne R Trupin, MD

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Lee P Shulman, MD

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