Birth Control

Contraceptive Creams and Lotions

There is no definitive data on the effectiveness of these spermicides, but the failure rate for typical users may be as high as 21% per year. Package instructions must be carefully followed because some spermicide products require you to wait 10 minutes or more after inserting the spermicide before having sex.

One dose of spermicide is usually effective for one hour. For repeated intercourse, additional spermicide must be applied. After intercourse, the spermicide has to remain in place for at least six to eight hours to ensure that all sperm are killed. The woman should not douche or rinse the vagina during this time.