Condoms With Spermicide

There has been a long debate on the effectiveness of condoms with spermicide. Condoms with spermicide contain an active ingredient called Nonoxynol 9 (N-9) which is suppose to kill sperm that come in instant contact with it. This article will present some of the downfalls of condoms with spermicide.

1. Pregnancy. Spermicidal condoms are suppose to prevent pregnancy when used correctly. A foam or tablet form of N-9 should be used in conjunction with the spermicidal condom, otherwise there is a good chance that pregnancy can occur.
2. Effectiveness. Condoms with spermicide are no more effective than regular latex condoms; thus, spermicidal condoms cannot protect you from most STDs and are strictly used for preventing pregnancy. HIV negative partners benefit more from these condoms versus regular condoms.
3. Risk Factors. Condoms with spermicide actually increase the rate of getting an STD and HIV versus regular condoms.
4. Cost. Condoms with spermicide not only cost more than regular condoms, but they have a shorter shelf life of three years versus the normal five years.
5. Infections/ Allergic Reaction. N-9 can cause irritation to the vaginal and rectum area and with prolonged use of this ingredient, infection can set in and cause a rash or make the person susceptible to catching STDs.
6. Urinary Tract Infection. Urinary tract infection has been associated with young women who use condoms with spermicide.
7. Gonorrhea & Chlamydia. Condoms with spermicide has shown to provide modest protection against gonorrhea and chlamydia, but no protection against other STDs and HIV.
8. Decline in Use. Many condom manufacturers have discontinued condoms with spermicide while some companies still provide them with a low dose of N-9.