What is it?

Spermicide is a non-hormonal birth control that is available in several different forms, including creams, jellies, tablets, suppositories, foams, and film.

How does it work?

• Spermicide is inserted into the vagina in front of the cervix before intercourse.
• It contains an active ingredient (Nonoxynol-9) that destroys sperm.
• Always read the directions for use on the spermicide packaging.
• Some forms of spermicide, such as foam, require an applicator. Foam is effective immediately and up to one hour after insertion. Appy foam each time you have sex.
• Spermicide film must be inserted in the vagina at least 15 minutes before sex to allow time for it to melt and disperse. It is effective for up to 3 hours after insertion.

How effective is it?

Vaginal Spermicides are among the least effective form of birth control.

• Spermicide is 79% effective at preventing pregnancy
• 18–21 people out of 100 who use spermicide will become pregnant each year.
• Always use spermicide with another form of contraception, such as a condom, to prevent pregnancy.
• Check out this infographic from Sex & U for more information.

For birth control methods that provide the greatest protection against pregnancy, check out the IUD and Implant page.

Does it prevent sexually transmitted infections?

• Spermicide does not protect against sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs).
• To protect against pregnancy and STBBIs, use dual protection. This means using a condom and/or oral dam (dental dam) with another form of birth control each time you have sex.
• Talk to your healthcare provider or visit a sexual health clinic to find out what works best for you.

Services related to this information:

• Contact Planned Parenthood — NL Sexual Health Centre at 1-877 NO MYTHS (666-9847) or 709-579-1009
• Contact your Public Health Nurse.
• 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
• Medicuro Virtual Health Clinic
  • Virtual health care offered by health-care providers in Newfoundland & Labrador.

Eastern-Urban:

• Contact the Sexual Health Clinic at sexualhealthclinic@easternhealth.ca.
• Contact the community walk-in clinic (Mundy Pond) at 709-777-1706.