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The goal of contraception (or birth control) is to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. The majority of methods of contraception enable sexually active couples to temporarily avoid pregnancy. Permanent birth control is accomplished through sterilization. Be sure you know and understand the different types of birth control available to you, the risks and benefits of each, and any side effects, so that you can make an informed choice.
MoonDragon's Contraceptive Methods Compared
The contraceptive sponge is a small, disposable sponge that contains spermicide and is placed over the cervix to kill sperm before they enter the uterus or fertilize an egg.
The sponges are inserted vaginally prior to intercourse, and must be placed over the cervix to be effective. An elastic band across the sponge is present to facilitate removal.
Effectiveness for prevention of pregnancy when used correctly is about 89% to 91%, but can be used in conjunction with a condom making the contraceptive sponge as effective as any other reversible method of contraception. When improperly applied without the use of a condom its effectiveness is somewhere around 84% to 89%. Other sources suggest poorer effectiveness rates as summarized in the table.
Insertion of the sponge requires reaching the cervix, and is generally performed by the woman. Today advertises that intercourse can proceed as soon as the sponge is placed, and up to 24 hours afterward. It has to be left in at least six hours after the final act of intercourse, for a total rated maximum insertion time of 30 hours.
Women who have intercourse infrequently, or whose fertility is low because of age, will find the contraceptive sponge a good choice for contraception. Couples who have intercourse frequently (more than three times weekly) may find the contraceptive sponge less effective than those who have sex sporadically. This is mostly due to inconsistent and incorrect use. The contraceptive sponge is very effective for women who have not had children, but higher failure rates apply for women who use the sponge after they have given birth. One thing to be aware of is the unpleasant taste of the spermicide with which the sponge is saturated -- you might want to forgo oral sex if you're using the sponge.
Barrier methods may provide considerable protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as gonorrhea, chlamydia and certain pre-cancerous conditions of the cervix; however the contraceptive sponge does not prevent the transmission of many other STIs, including herpes, HPV or HIV. Women who frequently use spermicides may experience disruption in the vaginal skin, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and abnormal pap results.
TYPES OF SPONGES AVAILABLE
Two Sponges Available in the U.S. & Canada
TODAY CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE
The Today Sponge is a soft polyurethane foam sponge containing nonoxynol-9, a spermicide. Today has a unique 3-way action which provides reliable protection without hormones and without serious risk of dangerous side effects. It continuously releases an extremely effective spermicide which quickly kills the sperm on contact. It blocks the path of the sperm and it absorbs the sperm. Provides 24 hours of continuous protection. Clinically tested for easy removal. Clean, convenient, disposable and allows spontaneity!
First introduced in 1983, the contraceptive sponge was a popular woman-controlled, over-the-counter birth control method manufactured by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. In 1995, the manufacturer discontinued the product because it was going to be too expensive to continue manufacturing it and didn't want to have to upgrade its plant. It was not discontinued because of any problems with the sponge itself. In 1998, Allendale Pharmaceuticals scraped together money to buy the patents and the complex manufacturing equipment. Tough new FDA standards for manufacturing and record-keeping forced repeated delays, but the Today sponge was finally put on the market. The Today contraceptive sponge became available in Canada in March 2003, and in the U.S. in September 2005.
Most of the information given on this web page is for the Today Sponge since it is the only one available in the United States at this time. For more information visit the Today Sponge Web Site.
PROTECTAID CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE
The Protectaid® contraceptive sponge is a unique barrier device made of polyurethane foam impregnated with F-5 Gel®. The individually wrapped disposable sponge is ready to use and designed with die-cut slots for easy insertion and removal. The sponge provides protection for a 12 hour period and a new sponge is not required if multiple acts of intercourse occur during this period. The sponge is to be left in for a minimum of 6 hours after intercourse. 
In clinical tests, the overall efficiency rate was 90 percent. It is our most popular item. The sponge is a very convenient form of contraception. There is no prescription or fitting required and insertion does not interrupt foreplay. It cannot be felt by either partner and there is no leakage after ejaculation because the sponge absorbs semen. Studies on Protectaid® confirm contraceptive efficacy, high tolerability with no symptomatic irritation. The new Protectaid® sponge really constitutes the ideal vaginal barrier method, it is effective, safe, readily available and easy-to-use.
The F-5 Gel® This spermicide is an innovative product in that it contains three agents; Nonoxynol-9 (NX9), Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC), and Sodium Cholate (NACOL). These are used in low concentrations, thereby minimizing the risk of cervical and vaginal irritation and irritation to the penis. Studies with Protectaid® have shown an absence of significant colposcopic irritation after 6-12 hour use periods. The F-5 Gel® was also shown to exert its spermicidal activity in vitro even when diluted. Preliminary studies indicate that the Protectaid® sponge can also help prevent STDs, including HIV. Though still to be confirmed in clinical studies, it is already well established that at least two of the active ingredients [Nonoxynol-9 (NX9) and Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC)] have strong virucidal, fungicidal and bactericidal activities. In vitro studies conducted by Axcan Ltd. demonstrated that the F-5 Gel® destroys a large number of pathenogenic microorganisms including HIV, Chlamydia and the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea.
Protectaid is available, over the counter, in Canada and can be ordered through Canadian Online Pharmacies. If you want to order the Canadian ProtectAid Sponge, it is available online. A Combo pack is available containing both the Today and the Protectaid Sponges. See links to Resources below.
PHARMATEX CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE
The Pharmatex Sponge is a foam cylinder impregnated with 60 mg of the spermicide Benzalkonium chloride (BZK). It may be inserted up to 24 hours before vaginal intercourse, and it must not be removed for a minimum of 2 hours after the last act of vaginal intercourse. In addition, it should not be left in place for more than 24 hours. The Pharmatex Sponge was introduced to the European Market in 1984, but it is not available in the U.S. This sponge is available in the U.K. and can be obtained online.
TODAY SPONGE - PREVENTING PREGNANCY
The sponge prevents pregnancy in three ways:
- It acts as a spermicide (kills sperm). It acts as a reserve for 1,000 mg of nonoxynol-9, an effective spermicidal agent that is continuously released into the vagina in small amounts through a 24-hour wear time.
- It acts as a sponge by using the polyurethane foam which is used for trapping and absorbing sperm before they can enter the cervix.
- It is also a physical barrier, blocking the entrance to the uterus between the sperm and the cervix.
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE SPONGE BARRIER METHOD
The sponge is most effective for women who have never given birth vaginally (nullparous - 91.0%). For women who have borne a child (parous) the effectiveness is slightly lower (89.8%). This may be because the shape of the cervix changes after a baby has passed through the opening of the cervix. Also the muscles around the vagina become less firm and slight enlargement of the vaginal cavity occurs after childbirth. For these reasons, the sponge may not fit women who have given birth vaginally as well as it fits women who have never given birth vaginally. A difference in efficacy based on parity would not be expected, as the primary mechanism of action of Today® Sponge is the release of spermicide into the vagina, which would not differ between women who have or have not borne a child. In fact, the combined data from all centers — U.S. and international — participating in the clinical trials, demonstrate that there is no significant difference; in efficacy between women who are parous and those who are nulliparous (women who have not borne a child). Today® Sponge is equally effective in all women, regardless of their previous childbearing history.
With consistent and correct use, the contraceptive sponge is about 90% effective; however, most couples will find the contraceptive sponge to be, on average, 84 to 87% effective at preventing pregnancy.
Failure Rates: These rates reflect the number of women out of 100 who would become pregnant using the sponge within the first year.
- Typical Use:
Women who have never given birth vaginally - 18%
Women who have given birth vaginally - 36%
- Perfect Use: 89 - 91%
Women who have never given birth vaginally - 9%
Women who have given birth vaginally - 26%
Twelve Month Efficacy Rates Per 100 Women
Adapted from Today® Sponge Labeling
Study
of Women
-Effectiveness*
-Effectiveness**United States
International
Worldwide
*Method-Effectiveness: The level of effectiveness expected by women who follow the printed instructions exactly, and who use Today® Sponge every time they have intercourse.
** Use-Effectiveness: The level of effectiveness which can be expected by a large group of women, some of whom either fail to use Today® Sponge correctly or do not use it every time they have intercourse.
ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES
ADVANTAGES
- Sponges cause very few health problems. Since it doesn't contain hormones that often have intense side effects, this is a good choice for women who choose to use a hormone-free contraceptive device.
- Reliable form of contraception when used correctly and consistently. Controlled worldwide clinical study, efficiency is 89% to 91%. The use-effectiveness rate for the Today® Sponge is 84% to 87% in everyday use by average women.
- Small, portable and inexpensive. Disposable after each use.
- They can be used only when needed. Makes a good contraceptive choice for women that don't have frequent encounters involving sexual intercourse.
- Confidential. Your partner doesn't have to know you're using it. Since they are made of soft polyurethane foam that mimics the feel of vaginal tissue, it is very comfortable and generally undetected by either partner during intercourse.
- Can be inserted between 1 to 24 hours before sexual intercourse. The spermicide is effective for 24 hours.
- Can be used for up to 24 hours without adding anything more. Wearer can have intercourse an unlimited number of times with each wearing since the sponge contains spermicide that is continually present for 24 hours. There is no need to add spermicide. No mess.
- Teaches women more about their anatomy.
- Available over-the-counter without having to visit a health care provider or obtaining a prescription. There is no special fitting required. It can be purchased at most drugstores or pharmacies. Contraceptive sponges are available for purchase Online.
DISADVANTAGES
- May increase the risk for urinary tract infection, toxic shock syndrome, vaginal infection or inflammation of the cervix.
- Allergic reactions or irritation may occur in sensitive individuals.
- The spermicide in the contraceptive sponge can make performing oral sex on the wearer unsavory; many people have complained about the "numbing" effect of the sponge.
- Requires touching of the genitals.
- Can be difficult to insert or to remove. Some women cannot easily reach their cervix and must choose a different form of contraception.
RESOURCES TO ORDER:
Contraceptive sponges can be purchased at most grocery stores, family-planning clinics, drugstores or pharmacies. As the sponge is not generally as available as other forms of contraception, such as condoms, you may want to call ahead to ensure the store can help you. If your local retail outlet does not have the contraceptive sponge, you can purchase them online from a variety of resources. It doesn't hurt to shop around and find the best price. Here are a few resources I located on the Internet:
24-Hour SpongeLine: For users who have questions or problems with the Today® Sponge.
1-888-343-4499
E-mail: questions@todaysponge.com
Mailing Address:
Allendale Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
73 Franklin Turnpike
Allendale, NJ 07401
Allendale Pharmaceuticals, Inc. on the web: www.allendalepharm.com
Contraception Sponge Products:
TODAY SPONGE DIRECTIONS
SPONGE INSERT:
Read the package directions, especially if you have not used the sponge since it went off the market. If the package directions differ from the information on this page, follow the package insert. Click here for Online Directions from Today Sponge
Wash hands thoroughly using warm water and soap.
Remove the sponge from its package. Holding the sponge with the dimple side up and the loop down, moisten the sponge, but don't soak it, with clean tap water. Do not use saliva! Gently squeeze the sponge to make suds, which makes the spermicide start working. 
Using the picture as a guide for proper handling, place the sponge into the vagina, folding the sudsy sponge in half with the dimple side facing upward and insert deeply in the vagina, covering and against the cervix as in the diagram below.
The dimple side should face the cervix and the loop side of the sponge with the string should be facing away from the cervix toward the outside of the body.
Have intercourse as many times as desired for up to 24 hours. The sponge is working as soon as it is inserted. It can be inserted right before intercourse or it can be inserted up to 24 hours prior to intercourse. There is no need to do anything more if you have intercourse more than once within the 24 hour period. It may be left in place for up to, but no more than, 24 hours.
SPONGE REMOVAL:
Leave the sponge in place for at least 6 hours after sex. This is how long it takes for all of the sperm to be destroyed. Don't douche or rinse the vagina during this time. Showers are fine.
Be sure to remove the sponge at the end of 30 hours (24 hours plus 6 hours after intercourse). Find the position that works best for you for removal.
Slowly and gently pull on the string attached to the sponge to remove it and withdraw it from the vagina. If removal is difficult, relax, breathe out slowly while bearing down and try again. Once removed, check the sponge to make sure you removed the entire sponge.
Again, you can remove the sponge 6 hours after the last act of intercourse or you can leave it in for up to 30 hours. Do not leave it in for longer than 30 hours.
Do not reuse the same sponge. The sponge is disposable. After you have removed it, throw it away.
Use a different method of contraception during menstrual bleeding. This is to reduce the risk of getting Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
FOLLOW-UP
Contraceptive sponges can only be used once. After you use it, throw it away! Also, be aware that because of the spermicidal agents in the sponge, the package does bear an expiration date. Do not use a sponge past its expiration date or you will risk pregnancy or infection.
SIDE EFFECTS
The Contraceptive Sponge, not being a hormonal contraceptive, has only a few risks, which include:
The sponges are not effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases. The spermicide nonoxynol-9 used in the contraceptive sponge can actually increase the risk of getting STDs.
Allergies to the polyurethane foam or spermicide make occur with some people. This reaction can cause itching, redness, and burning. If either partner is allergic to sulfa drugs, he or she should consult with their health care provider before using the sponge method.
Vaginal (yeast) infections may occur if the sponge is left in the vagina too long. Leaving the sponge in the vagina too long or improper use can result in toxic shock syndrome.
TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME DESCRIPTION:
Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome vary depending on the underlying cause. In either case, diagnosis is based strictly upon CDC criteria modified in 1981 after the initial surge in tampon-associated infections.[1] TSS resultant of infection with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus typically manifests in otherwise healthy individuals with high fever, accompanied by low blood pressure, malaise and confusion, which can rapidly progress to stupor, coma, and multi-organ failure. The characteristic rash, often seen early in the course of illness, resembles a sunburn, and can involve any region of the body, including the lips, mouth, eyes, palms and soles. In patients who survive the initial onslaught of the infection, the rash desquamates, or peels off, after 10–14 days.
In contrast, TSLS is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, and it typically presents in people with pre-existing skin infections with the bacteria. These individuals often experience severe pain at the site of the skin infection, followed by rapid progression of symptoms as described above for TSS. In contrast to TSS caused by Staphylococcus, Streptococcal TSS less often involves a sunburn-rash.
Diagnosis of TSS and TSLS are strictly based on CDC criteria; in general, the presence of high fevers, low blood pressure, confusion, and laboratory evidence of organ failure in the appropriate historical setting (e.g. menstruating woman using tampon, or young individual with pre-existing skin infection), are necessary to make the diagnosis.
CALL YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF::
WARNING: DO NOT USE ANY CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGE IF YOU HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME!
This is a very rare but serious illness. It is caused by a bacteria. Women can help prevent it by not using the sponge during menstrual bleeding and by taking it out within 30 hours. It is important that all sponge users know the warning signs for TSS.
- Sudden high fever or Fever for unknown reason.
- Vomiting, diarrhea.
- Dizziness, faintness and weakness.
- Sore throat, aching muscles and joints.
- Rash, which looks like a sunburn.
Other signs to watch for:
- Profuse, foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
- Unusual lower abdominal pain.
MoonDragon's Contraception Methods Compared
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MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Withdrawal Method
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MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Total Abstinence
MoonDragon's Contraception Information: Natural Family Planning (NFP)
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