Contraceptive sponge

What is a contraceptive sponge?

The contraceptive sponge is a form of birth control. You put it into your vagina before you have vaginal sex. You can use it to help prevent yourself from getting pregnant.

The sponge is a soft, round piece of foam. There are foam handles around the sponge so that you can pull it out. A healthcare worker can show you how to use it. The sponge works as a barrier, covering the cervix which is the opening to the uterus (womb). The sponge holds three different spermicides which kill sperm. When sperm is killed, your chances of getting pregnant are lower.

How does the sponge work?

The sponge works in four ways:

  1. It holds spermicide close to the cervix.

  2. The spermicide kills sperm.

  3. It works like a sponge. It absorbs and traps sperm.

  4. It works as a barrier. It covers the cervix and stops sperm from getting into the cervix.

How effective is the sponge?

Out of 100 women who use the sponge, 75 to 90 women will not get pregnant. Your chances of getting pregnant are lower when you use the sponge correctly. You have to use it every time you have vaginal sex. You are less likely to get pregnant when you use the sponge with a condom or another kind of birth control.

How do you use the sponge?

  • Read and follow the instructions that come with the sponge.

  • Put the sponge in before you have vaginal sex.

  • You can put it in up to six hours before you have vaginal sex.

  • If you have sex again, leave the sponge in. You can have sex as many times as you want within 12 hours without changing the sponge.

  • Leave the sponge in for six-eight hours after you last had sex. This is so the spermicide can kill the sperm.

  • Do not use the sponge when you have your period.

What are the advantages of the sponge?

  • You don’t need to see a healthcare worker to get it.

  • You only use it when you need it.

  • You shouldn’t feel it. Your partner shouldn’t feel it.

  • You don’t have to interrupt sex to put it in.

  • Your partner doesn’t have to be involved.

  • It doesn’t cause any changes in your body.

  • You can easily carry it in your pocket or your purse.

What are the disadvantages of the sponge?

  • It can be expensive if you use it a lot.

  • Some women find it hard to put it in or take it out.

  • You can’t use it during your period.

  • You need to feel comfortable with your body.

  • You cannot use it if you or your partner(s) are allergic to spermicides.

  • If you have a Pap test that is not normal, you may not be able to use it.

  • You may be at more risk of getting toxic shock syndrome.

Where can you get the sponge?

You can buy the contraceptive sponge at a drug store. You don’t need to see a healthcare worker to get one.