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Contraception - Background information
How do spermicides help to reduce the risk of pregnancy?
- Spermicides contain a surfactant which damages the lipid layer of the sperm's cell membrane, thus chemically killing it. In addition, they cause an alteration of vaginal pH, resulting in a hostile environment for sperm.
- Spermicides do not give adequate contraception protection if used alone (unless fertility is already significantly diminished). They should only be used as an adjunct to the diaphragm and cervical cap.
- There is no evidence that condoms lubricated with nonoxinol-9 (spermicide) provide additional protection against pregnancy or sexual transmitted infections compared to condoms lubricated with a non-spermicidal lubricant.
[FFPRHC, 2007a]
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