Sperm, effect

In the last several decades, physical properties of vaginal contraceptive formulations have been improved to deUver spermicide more effectively and enhance consumer compliance. The formulation that deUvers the spermicide can affect the efficacy of vaginal contraceptives (86,87). Formulations currentiy available include jeUies, creams, suppositories, aerosol foams, and foaming tablets. Each consists of a relative inert base material that serves as a carrier for the chemically active spermicide and blocks to some extent the passage of sperm. 

Diaphragms, shallow mbber cups with a flexible metal rim which are placed in the vagina and cover the cervix, are both a mechanical barrier to sperm and a receptable for spermicidal agent. The mechanism of action is beheved to be a combination of spermicidal and mechanical barrier actions. To be effective, the diaphragm must fit correctly, be inserted properly, and remain in place sufficiently long for the spermicide to act (99). 

Organic molecules thus far identified, such as those fisted above, appear either to have irreversible antifertifity effects, to be inherently toxic, or to affect libido. It has been demonstrated that sperm count could be depressed in men injected with large doses of androgens. However, questions about the potential utility of androgens as male antifertifity agents are stiU debated. 

Pagulayan IF, Baoanan ZG, Villa LQ. 1994. The effect of methyl parathion on the sperm head morphology of the ICR strain mice. Asia Life Sci 3(1) 45-54. 

Khan PK, Sinha SP. 1996. Ameliorating effect of vitamin C on murine sperm toxicity induced by three pesticides (endosulfan, phosphamidon and mancozeb). Mutagenesis ll(l) 33-36. 

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