Any Sponge Users?

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-15-2004
Any Sponge Users?
3
Tue, 04-06-2004 - 9:22am
I'm going to be changing birth control soon and decided I want to use a diaphragm but won't be able to be fitted for it at the time I stop using the other method. So I thought of using the sponge along with condoms. What is the difference between Protectaid and Today Sponge? The Today Sponge seems to be less expensive but if the Protectaid has better benefits I'd prefer that. Any experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
iVillage Member
Registered: 01-09-2004
Wed, 04-07-2004 - 5:29pm
Sorry, no info here, just a comment and question.

I'm curious as to why you are going to use a sponge with condoms. I'm sure it seems more effective but I'm not sure. Hell, I also don't know much about sponges but I do know something about spermicide.

In studies done in Thailand with prostitutes, findings showed that those who used a spermicide with their condoms were more likely to contract HIV than those who didn't. The thought is that the spermicide actually makes tiny cuts in the condom with the friction and the virus slips through.

Aren't sponges spermicidal? If this is the case, then wouldn't a sponge be more detrimental when using a condom? I thought sponges were for use with diaphrams or, uh, I guess that's it.

As maybe a comment and a question: Does it make sense to use a sponge with a condom?

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Wed, 04-07-2004 - 9:09pm
Actually, spermicide DOES NOT adversely affect condoms! There have been recent studies testing the effectiveness of the common spermicide ingredient Nonoxynol-9 against the HIV virus. These studies have shown that women who are very frequent users are more apt to experience tiny tears in their vaginal walls and therefore more likely to contract HIV. See:

“Effectiveness of COL-1492, a nonoxynol-9 vaginal gel, on HIV-1 transmission in female sex workers: a randomised controlled trial.”

“INTERPRETATION: This study did not show a protective effect of COL-1492 on HIV-1 transmission in high-risk women. Multiple use of nonoxynol-9 could cause toxic effects enhancing HIV-1 infection. This drug can no longer be deemed a potential HIV-1-prevention method.” Link:

http://www4.infotrieve.com/newmedline/detail.asp?NameID=12383665&Session=&searchQuery=Nonoxynol%2D9+AND+HIV+AND+Thailand&count=9 And


“Nonoxynol-9 for preventing vaginal acquisition of HIV infection by women from men.”

“REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: There is good evidence that nonoxynol-9 does not protect against sexually transmitted infections, and there is some evidence that it may be harmful by increasing the rate of genital ulceration. As such, this product cannot be recommended for STI prevention.” Link:

http://www4.infotrieve.com/newmedline/detail.asp?NameID=12519622&Session=&searchQuery=Nonoxynol%2D9+AND+HIV&count=229

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-15-2004
Thu, 04-08-2004 - 4:47pm
Thanks for clearing that up I was wondering myself. According to what I read the nonoxynol-9 in spermicidal condoms is not enough to kill off sperm if it breaks. Many recommend using added spermicide if your going to use condoms alone. I'm married more concerned with preventing pregnancy than sexually transmitted diseases but if I wasn't I could see the reason to cut back on spermicide to prevent exposed tears in the vaginal wall leading to STDs. The sponge is not normally used with the diaphragm, it is used by itself or with a condom. I found out the sponge is currently not available over the counter here in the U.S. but should be back within the next year and can be bought online. So I'm going to get some applicators that contain spermicide for added protection. I still would like to hear from anyone who has used sponges though.:)