|
Contraceptive Sponge
What is a contraceptive
sponge?
The contraceptive sponge
is a soft saucer-shaped device made from polyurethane foam. It
is considered a barrier method of contraception.
How does a contraceptive sponge
work?
The contraceptive sponge
is designed to fit over the cervix and works in three ways to
prevent pregnancy:
-
It blocks the cervix,
preventing semen from entering the uterus
-
The sponge contains spermicide
which kills sperm
-
The sponge absorbs the
semen.
How effective is a contraceptive
sponge?
When the contraceptive
sponge is used correctly and consistently, it has about a 9%
failure rate or almost 1 in 10. Typical use of the
contraceptive sponge refers to the way that most people use it.
The failure rate during typical use is approximately 16%. You
should take a pregnancy test if you are experiencing any
pregnancy symptoms.
What are the side effects or health
risks of a contraceptive sponge?
The contraceptive sponge
has been associated with some women experiencing toxic shock
syndrome (TSS) - a rare but serious life-threatening bacterial
infection.
The sponge should not be
left inside the vagina for more than 30 hours. The sponge
should not be used during menstruation or if you have a history
of TSS.
Is a contraceptive sponge
reversible?
Yes. The contraceptive
sponge does not have any effects on either the male's or
female's reproductive function. Pregnancy is possible when you
stop using the contraceptive sponge.
What about a contraceptive sponge and
sexually transmitted diseases
(STD's)?
The contraceptive sponge
does NOT provide protection against the transmission of
sexually transmitted diseases.
What are the pros & cons of the
contraceptive sponge?
|
