Spermicide comes as a cream, gel, sponge, foam, insert, or film. The spermicide is inserted into the body before sex. Spermicide has chemicals that prevent pregnancy by killing sperm.

How effective is it against pregnancy?

• Typical use: Prevents pregnancy 79% of the time
• Perfect use: Prevents pregnancy 82% of the time
• Using spermicide correctly and consistently increases its effectiveness. If you use spermicide perfectly, it is about 82% effective at preventing pregnancy.

How to Use:

• Insert spermicide each time you have sex

Pros:

• Can buy at many stores
• Can insert as part of sex play/foreplay
• Can be used while breastfeeding
• Can be inserted up to 1 hour before having sex

Cons:

• May raise the risk of getting HIV and other STIs
• May irritate vagina or penis
• May be messy
• Does not protect against HIV or other STIs – use a condom with this method

More info: How Do I Use Spermicide?