Lesson
2: Continuing the Choice
Spermicides
Lemon juice,
honey, and vinegar all have something in common. Throughout history,
they have been used as spermicides. Lemon juice and vinegar both
make the vagina acidic, which kills sperm cells, and honey is very
thick which keeps the sperm from moving.
Spermicide works
by killing sperm and blocking the entrance of the uterus. There
are several types of spermicides and many different brands. Spermicides
must be placed deep inside the vagina, next to the cervix 10 minutes
before each sexual act. Each type of spermicide comes with full
instructions on how to use it. These instructions must be read and
understood before attempting to use the spermicide.
There are a
few different types of spermicide available today including foams,
jellies or gels, and spermicidal films. All work in the same way
by killing sperm cells before they can enter the uterus and by blocking
the cervix.
The only possible
side effect is that of an allergic reaction. Usually switching brands
will alleviate this.
This method
of birth control should not be used if there is an infection present,
or any lacerations or abrasions inside the vagina or on the penis.
Women that douche must wait at least 6 to 8 hours after the last
sexual act to do so. Douching earlier will remove the spermicide
and any sperm still present can then enter the uterus and result
in pregnancy.
The typical
use of any spermicide alone (without a condom) is about 74%, but
if they are used alone perfectly, it is closer to 94% effective.
There are very
few cons to using a spermicide, but these usually are that they
are messy and an allergic reaction, which can usually be taken care
of by switching brands. Spermicides do have many pros including;
no prescription required, fairly inexpensive, fully reversible,
and they do help to act as a personal lubricant during the sex act.
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