How to Use a Contraceptive Sponge

A vaginal barrier method of birth control, the contraceptive sponge prevents pregnancy by killing or paralyzing sperm that enter the vagina with a spermicide called Nonoxynol-9. The easily inserted, disposable sponge is a nonhormonal, donut-shaped, foam sponge. The sponge has a small dimple on one side, which covers your cervix and acts as a barrier to sperm. This dimple also helps keep the sponge in place during intercourse. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Wash your hands before handling the sponge.

2. Take the sponge out of its packaging and dampen it with about two tbsp. of water. Squeeze the sponge once.

3. Insert the sponge into your vagina using your fingers. Slide it on the vaginal back wall until it's against your cervix. Make sure the dimple covers your cervix and the loop is on the outer side. Insert the sponge just before intercourse or a few hours ahead.

4. Know that you have protection for 24 hours after inserting the sponge. It doesn't matter how many times you have intercourse within this time.

5. Leave the sponge in place for at least 6 hours after having intercourse.

6. Clean your hands before removing the sponge. Insert your fingers into your vagina, grab the sponge's loop with one finger and pull it out gently. Be certain the sponge remains in one piece upon removal.

7. Throw the used sponge away. If the sponge isn't whole, then make sure you remove all pieces from your vagina.

Tips & Warnings

• Contraceptive sponges are roughly 87 percent effective.
• With women who have already had a child, the contraceptive sponge is much more likely to be ineffective.
• The contraceptive sponge doesn't protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. Use a condom to reduce that risk.
• Don't use the sponge or any other vaginal barrier method that contains Nonoxynol-9 if you've had an allergic reaction to this spermicide.
• Never leave the sponge in for more than 30 hours, or you run the risk of contracting toxic shock syndrome.

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