Medicine That Kills Sperm In The Female Body
There are various contraceptive methods available for women to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Some of these methods include hormonal pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), diaphragms, condoms, and fertility awareness methods. Another option is using spermicidal agents, which are substances that kill or immobilize sperm, making it difficult for them to reach and fertilize an egg.
Spermicides come in various forms, such as gels, foams, creams, suppositories, and films. They contain chemicals that are toxic to sperm, such as nonoxynol-9, octoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride, and quaternary ammonium compounds. These chemicals work by disrupting the sperm cell membrane, preventing it from swimming and penetrating the cervical mucus.
Spermicides can be used alone or in combination with other methods, such as condoms or diaphragms. They are available over-the-counter and are easy to use. However, they are not as effective as some other methods, such as hormonal implants or IUDs. They have a failure rate of around 28% when used alone and 18% when used with a condom.
Advantages Of Spermicides
Spermicides are a convenient and affordable method of contraception. They do not require a prescription or medical supervision, and they can be used on demand. They are also easy to use and do not interfere with sexual pleasure or sensation. They have no systemic side effects and do not affect the menstrual cycle or fertility.
Spermicides can also provide some protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), although they are not as effective as condoms. They can help lower the risk of STIs by killing some of the pathogens that cause them, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. However, they do not protect against HIV, herpes, syphilis, or HPV.
Disadvantages Of Spermicides
Spermicides have some disadvantages that should be considered before using them. First, they are not as effective as some other methods, especially when used alone. They have a high failure rate, which means that they may not prevent pregnancy in all cases. They also require proper and consistent use, as well as correct timing.
Second, spermicides may cause some side effects, such as irritation, itching, burning, or allergic reactions. These side effects are usually mild and transient, but they can be annoying or uncomfortable. Some people may also find the texture or smell of spermicides unpleasant or messy.
Third, spermicides may increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bacterial vaginosis (BV) in some women. This may be due to the disruption of the normal vaginal flora or the irritation of the urethra. However, the risk is small and can be reduced by using low-dose or nonoxynol-9-free spermicides and by urinating after intercourse.
How To Use Spermicides
Spermicides are easy to use and can be inserted into the vagina up to an hour before intercourse. They should be reapplied for each act of sex and should not be washed away or douches for at least six hours after use. They can be used alone or in combination with other methods, such as condoms or diaphragms. They should not be used during menstruation or after childbirth until the cervix has fully healed.
Before using spermicides, it is important to read and follow the instructions carefully. It is also recommended to test for any allergic reactions or sensitivity by applying a small amount of the product on the inner forearm or thigh and waiting for 24 hours. If there is any itching, redness, or rash, the product should not be used.
Conclusion
Spermicides are a viable contraceptive option for women who want a non-hormonal and affordable method of birth control. They work by killing or immobilizing sperm, but they are not as effective as some other methods, especially when used alone. They have some advantages, such as convenience and on-demand use, but also some disadvantages, such as side effects and a high failure rate. They may also increase the risk of UTIs or BV in some women. It is important to use spermicides correctly and consistently, and to consider other methods if needed.