Contraceptive Sponge: What It Is, How It Works, and How Effective

Jules Selmes

There are different contraceptive methods for people who do not (yet) wish to become pregnant. The contraceptive sponge is not the most common choice, but it is nonetheless an option. Like other methods, it has its advantages and disadvantages. It stands out, for example, for being a nonhormonal alternative; On the other hand, it has low efficacy when compared to condom use and some other methods.

According to Dr. Bruna Pitaluga (CRM-DF 13.157), a gynecologist at Santa Lucia Hospital and a full member of the Brazilian Society of Gynecology, the contraceptive sponge is rarely used in Brazil for obvious reasons: there are more effective methods than it on the market. Find out what the sponge looks like, how it works, and clarify all your doubts about this vaginal barrier method.

Content Index:

• ?Which is
• How it works
• ?Advantages and disadvantages
• How to use
• ? Questions answered

What is contraceptive sponge?

Dr. Bruna explains that the sponge has the barrier method function and spermicide is added to improve the contraceptive outcome.

Contraceptive sponge can be found for sale in some drugstores, but it is not yet so popular here in Brazil. The cost is around $ 30 to $ 100.

Read also: 10 things you need to know if you want to get pregnant (and also if you don't want to)

How does the contraceptive sponge work?

The contraceptive sponge is made of polyurethane (material commonly used to make sponges) in the shape of a small disc, containing a middle cavity and a handle (for ease of removal).

When inserted, the sponge will block the entry of the cervix while releasing the spermicide present in it, Nonoxynol-9. Both measures aim to prevent sperm from entering the uterus and, consequently, fertilization of the egg.

The sponge should release spermicide at all times, keeping the woman protected from possible pregnancy for up to 24 hours.

Advantages and disadvantages

But is it worth using the contraceptive sponge? Why choose sponge over other methods? Evaluate your advantages:

• It can be used only when there is sexual intercourse;
• It is easily carried anywhere;
• Does not suffer interference if the woman is taking any medication;
• It is hormone free;
• It can be used even during breastfeeding;

In contrast, the method has the following disadvantages:

Read also: 38 Contraceptive Questions Answered by Gynecologists

• Low effectiveness;
• Possible interference with the spontaneity of sexual intercourse (if the couple needs to interrupt the act for the woman to insert the sponge);
• Pay attention to the number of hours the sponge will remain in place (if longer than indicated may lead to serious infections);
• Use requires some practice in placing and removing the sponge;
• Material may cause allergy in some people.
• Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

As with other contraceptive methods, the advantages and disadvantages may be more or less significant for one woman than for another. That is, the choice of whether or not to use the contraceptive sponge is very personal. The important thing is that the woman knows the particularities of each method and preferably counts on the advice of her / his gynecologist to make the best choice.

How to use contraceptive sponge

Bruna explains that the woman should insert the sponge into the vagina before sexual intercourse and keep it there for contraceptive effectiveness. The procedure is simple, like inserting an internal pad. Once the woman has mastered the insertion technique, is it very easy to use?

The sponge can be inserted a few hours before or at the time of intercourse. The first step should be to wash your hands. It is also recommended to moisten and lightly squeeze the sponge to activate the spermicide. It should be inserted with the cavity facing up and the handle facing down. To do this, fold it in half and push it upwards as far as it will go until it covers the cervix.

After sex, the sponge should be kept in place for at least 6 hours. But, it is worth mentioning, should not stay in the vagina for more than 30 hours straight.

When removing it, pull the sponge carefully by the handle. Throw it away immediately after that.

Read also: Female Condom: Complete Guide to Getting Rid of Taboos and Preventing

More questions about contraceptive sponge solved

Because it is a product directly related to women's health and protection, it is natural that doubts arise about its use. Check out the clarification for the main questions below:

Who is the use of contraceptive sponge recommended for? According to Dr. Bruna, for all women who choose this contraceptive method. The woman should always be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each method and preferably talk to her / her gynecologist for help choosing which one is best for her.

Are there any risks in using contraceptive sponge? "Women allergic to sponge components may have reactions," the doctor responds. Also, is it worth reinforcing that if the sponge stays longer than 30 hours in the vagina? What is not recommended?, can cause a serious infectious condition.

How effective is the contraceptive sponge? Low, answers Bruna. "The sponge protects in 76% of cases, a low efficacy compared to the copper intrauterine device, for example, which is 99.2%," he adds.

Is the contraceptive sponge disposable? ?Yes. Once removed from the vagina, it should be discarded? Reminds the gynecologist.

Read also: Get to know SIU, one of the safest contraceptive methods

Is there a difference in effectiveness for women who have had children? This is a common question, as some say that the sponge may not work as well in women who have had children and because of that they have had a stretch of the vagina and cervix, which would not allow the sponge to fit well. . However, according to the gynecologist, there is no difference in effectiveness.

Does contraceptive sponge prevent STDs? No, reinforces Bruna. "The contraceptive sponge does not prevent STDs and concomitant condom use is indicated," he advises.

What are the possible side effects of contraceptive sponge? "Allergic reactions to sponge components, her leaving the place and her falling apart inside the vagina during sex are the most common complaints," explains Bruna.

What is the difference between contraceptive sponge and other barrier methods (cervical cap, diaphragm)? ? All are barrier methods. The sponge is a barrier method plus spermicide in an attempt to improve its effectiveness. However, as I said earlier, the sponge has low effectiveness.

Now you know what the contraceptive sponge is and how it works, and if so, you can discuss using it with your trusted doctor. Remember, however, that it does not exclude the need for condom use with regard to the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases.

Contraceptive Sponge: Today (April 2024)