Contraceptive sponge

The vaginal contraceptive sponge (Today) contains 1 g of nonoxynol-9 and provides protection for 24 hours. After intercourse, the sponge must be left in place for at least 6 hours before removal, ft is available without a prescription. 

Spermicides kill sperm. They are not completely effective as contraceptives when used alone but they improve the effectiveness of barrier methods. For centuries, women have used a variety of substances in conjunction with pads or sponges to prevent conception. Acids, such as vinegar, lemon juice and even Coca-Cola, restrict the motility of sperm, so that movement through the vagina is significantly restricted. 

Kreiss J., et al. 1992. Efficacy of nonoxynol 9 contraceptive sponge use in preventing heterosexual acquisition of HIV in Nairobi prostitutes. JAMA 268 477. 

In a study of the efficacy and acceptabihty of benzalkonium chloride-containing contraceptives (vaginal sponges, pessaries, and creams) in 56 women, one developed an allergic reaction with edema of the vulva (4). Non-allergic local irritation, itching, and a burning sensation were reported in nine women and nine husbands. 

Modem spermicides are produced in a variety of formulations, including gels, foams, creams, suppositories, pessaries, capsules, foaming tablets, and melting films. Spermicides are also used in conjunction with other methods, such as diaphragms, condoms, and sponges, but also with intrauterine contraceptive devices and methods based on fertility awareness (1). 

Contraceptive sponges are controversial do they act by delivering spermicides or as barriers However, it has been shown conclusively that the newest forms of sponges, which provide not one but a combination of three active spermicides, act much more like spermicides than as simple vaginal barriers. 

Toxic shock syndrome has also been described in association with use of a vaginal contraceptive sponge vaginal cultures grew S. aureus (10). 

Faich G, Pearson K, Fleming D, Sobel S, Anello C. Toxic shock syndrome and the vaginal contraceptive sponge. JAMA 1986 255(2) 216-18. 

An intravaginal suppository is more accurately termed a pessary. Most are designed for topical or local use, including for Candida albicans and Trichomonas infections, as well as for preparation of the cervix prior to induction of labour. Contraceptive devices are outside of the scope of a chapter on pharmaceutics, although the nonoxyl-containing sponge pessary is a imique formulation. 

Chvapil, M., Heine, M.W. and Horton, H. (1976) The aceptance of the collagen sponge diaphram as an intravaginal contraceptive in human volunteer. Fertility and Sterility. 27, 1398-1406. 

Contraception and Sterilization. Some applications of reproductive science are intended to prevent, not facilitate, impregnation. Most of the available contraceptive methods are designed for use by the female partner alone, although a few are meant for shared use or use by the male partner alone. Barrier methods, such as the sponge, the diaphragm, the male and female condoms, and the cervical cap, prevent sperm from reaching the egg inside the Fallopian tube. Hormonal methods, such as the pill, the... 

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