Can you use spermicide on birth control?
Spermicide can be used by itself, or combined with other birth control methods.
Can spermicide cause birth defects?
No. Good evidence shows that spermicides will not cause birth defects or otherwise harm the fetus if a woman becomes pregnant while using spermicides or accidentally uses spermicides when she is already pregnant.
Does spermicide affect baby?
Pregnancy. Many studies have shown that the use of vaginal spermicides does not increase the risk of birth defects or miscarriage.
What are the side effects of spermicide?
Rare
- Cloudy or bloody urine.
- increased frequency of urination.
- pain in the bladder or lower abdomen.
- thick, white, or curd-like vaginal discharge—with use of cervical caps or diaphragms only.
- vaginal irritation, redness, rash, dryness, or whitish discharge.
Do you have to wash out spermicide?
When using a spermicide, douching within 6 to 8 hours after the last sexual intercourse (even with just water) may stop the spermicide from working properly. Also, washing or rinsing the vaginal or rectal area may wash the spermicide away before it has had time to work properly.
What are the side effects of using spermicides?
Can spermicide cause abortion?
The use of spermicides for contraception may increase the risk of birth defects or spontaneous abortion, according to a study published today in The Journal of the American Medical Association.
What are some of the main disadvantages of spermicides?
Some of the disadvantages of spermicides are that they:
- do not provide protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs);
- are not considered an effective form of contraception when used alone;
- may produce side effects such as vaginal or penile irritation;
How long does spermicide stay in the body?
One dose of spermicide usually lasts 1 hour. For repeated sex, use additional spermicide. After sex, the spermicide has to remain in place for 6-8 hours to make sure the sperm are killed.