Contraceptive Foam
What
is contraceptive foam?
Foam is placed into
the woman's vagina using an applicator and has two effects.
It kills or destroys
sperm and blocks the man's fluids from entering the
cervical canal. Foam stops sperm from getting to the
egg. Among typical couples who initiate
use of vaginal spermicide, 29 percent will experience an accidental pregnancy
in the first year. If vaginal spermicide is used consistently and correctly,
about 18 percent will become pregnant. Foam is most is effective when used
in combination with condoms. Complete information
about this contraceptive is available through a family
planning association or clinic,
a clinician or the package insert accompanying the foam.
General Tips
- A
woman should practice putting foam into her vagina
in advance. This will make it easier at the time of
intercourse.
- You
can't be sure if there is enough foam in the can to
protect against the next act of intercourse. It may
help to keep an extra handy.
What are the
advantages of contraceptive foam?
- Foam
gives the woman control over use of a contraceptive.
- It
is available over the counter without a visit to a
clinician.
- It
can be put into the vagina up to 20 minutes before
sexual intercourse, but it is also effective immediately.
- Foam
is safe and has no hormones.
- The
man's penis can remain inside the vagina after ejaculation.
What are the
disadvantages?
- It
may not be protective against HIV/AIDS. To increase
effectiveness, use condoms.
- Foam
can be irritating to the vagina, and some people feel
that it is messy.
- Some
women do not like placing an applicator up into the
vagina.
- The
taste of foam is unpleasant.
- The
container carrying the foam is large and some may find
it embarrassing to carry around.
Where can
I get foam?
At your local pharmacy, drug store, clinic or at a number of online drugstores.
Adapted from Hatcher RA et al. Contraceptive Technology. 18th rev. edition. New York, NY: Ardent Media, 2004.
Additional Information >> Contraceptive Choices
Chart Comparing the Effectiveness of Various Methods :: Contraceptive
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