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Foams and Condoms
- Also known as jelly and rubbers or
prophylactics
You may also use this guide for vaginal suppositories
and vaginal sponges,
which are similar in effectiveness to foam.
- NOTE
PP/WHS recommends the use of foam, suppositories or
sponges in conjunction with the condom. Used together,
they are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. For
your convenience, they will be discussed together.
- Effectiveness
Condoms and foam, suppositories or sponges used
together are 95% effective in preventing
pregnancy.
- How it Works
Foam and Vaginal Suppositories
The chemical element in foam kills or immobilizes
sperm in the vagina; the non-reactive base blocks the
sperm at the cervix and prevents it from entering the
uterus. Vaginal suppositories have the same sperm
immobilizing effect. These methods also provide
lubrication for the condom.
Vaginal Sponge
It is a mechanical barrier which blocks the entrance
of the uterus so sperm cannot enter. Also has the same
sperm killing and immobilizing effect as foam and
suppositories.
Condom
The condom blocks the passage of sperm from the penis
to the vagina. Condoms also provide some protection
against venereal disease and other types of infection.
Condoms, used by the male, should be used together
with another method.
- Description
Foam
Contraceptive foam (Delfen, Emko, Dalkon and
Conceptrol are popular brands) is make up of two main
components: a spermicidal (sperm killing) chemical and
an inert base which provides the bulk necessary to
hole the spermicide up against the cervix in the
vagina.
Vaginal Sponge
Vaginal contraceptive sponge (Today) is made of a soft
polyurethane foam sponge containing a spermicidal
chemical. The sponge looks like a small white doughnut
with a "dimple" in the center which fits over the
cervix. NOTE: Currently not on the market in the
United States.
Condom
The condom is a thin sheath of rubber or animal
membrane and is worn over the penis during sexual
intercourse. Condoms come in several forms: lubricated
or unlubricated, plain end or receptacle end.
Directions for Use
Foam and Vaginal Suppositories
Two applicators of foam may be used for complete
protection. The foam must be inserted no more than 30
minutes before actual penetration.
To insert:
1.
Lie down on your back.
2.
Shake the can or vial and fill the applicator
according to the directions on the can.
3.
Insert the applicator as far as it will go into the
vagina. Tilt the applicator forward and press the
plunger, emptying the foam into the vagina. This will
cover the front part of the cervix.
4.
Refill with a second applicator of foam. Insert into
the vagina, this time tilting the applicator toward
the rectum. This application will cover the back part
of the cervix, providing complete coverage.
NOTE: If you are using Emko or Dalkon,
only one application is needed. Insert the applicator
as far as it will go into the vagina. Tilt the
applicator forward and press the plunger half-way down
emptying 1/2 of the foam into the front part of the
vagina. Then tilt the applicator toward the rectum and
empty the remaining foam into the back of the
vagina.
5.
If you get up from a lying position after the foam is
inserted, but before intercourse occurs, another
application of foam will be needed.
6.
Each subsequent act of intercourse must be preceded by
another 2 full applications of foam.
7.
You can get up after intercourse without affecting the
action of the foam. However, you should not douche, go
swimming, or take a tub bath for 8 hours after
intercourse because that would dilute and therefore
weaken the spermicidal factor.
8.
If using a vaginal suppository, care should be taken
to insert it high into the vagina against the cervical
os. It should be inserted 10-15 minutes before
intercourse.
9.
Each subsequent act of intercourse requires another
suppository to be inserted.
Vaginal Sponge
1.
Remove sponge from package and wet it thoroughly with
clean water.
2.
Squeeze the sponge until it foams completely, to
activate the spermicide. (There is more than enough
spermicide in the sponge, so squeeze until it foams
generously while adding plenty of water).
3.
Fold the sides of the sponge upward and insert it
deeply in the vagina to cover the cervix.
4.
The sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours prior to
intercourse and provides immediate and continuous
contraception during this period, regardless of the
frequency of intercourse.
5.
The sponge should be left in place for six hours after
the last act of intercourse but no longer than 30
hours after insertion.
6.
You may swim or tub bathe with the sponge in
place.
7.
Do not use the sponge during your menstrual period.
Another method of birth control should be used during
this time.
8.
The sponge should be removed by grasping the specially
designed ribbon loop attached to the back of the
sponge. Do not attempt to pull on the sponge, as it
may fragment.
Condom
1.
The condom must be work throughout sexual intercourse
since pregnancy can result from an early
ejaculation.
2.
The pre-rolled condom should be put on after erection,
but before penetration occurs.
3.
The penis should be withdrawn before complete erection
is lost. It is important to make sure that the
open end of the condom is held tightly closed as the
penis is being removed.
4.
If the condom slips off, breaks, or leaks, the penis
should be immediately withdrawn and the woman should
immediately apply more contraceptive foam.
5.
A new condom must be used with each subsequent act of
intercourse.
Additional Information
1.
Condoms have a shelf life of two years and keep best
in cardboard or aluminum.
2.
Condoms should not be carried in a wallet for long
periods of time because they deteriorate easily from
heat, wear and sharp objects.
3.
Some women and men appear to be allergic to foam
and/or suppositories and it causes them to experience
itching, burning, or a rash. Changing brands may take
care of this. If the condition persists, a
practitioner or physician should be consulted.
4.
If unable to remove a vaginal sponge form the vagina,
a physician or practitioner should be consulted.
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