spermicide gel/foam users! i have a ?
Find a Conversation
spermicide gel/foam users! i have a ?
| Sat, 07-10-2004 - 1:55am |
I'm going off birth control after i use my last pack, which means condoms and spermicide for me. It doesn't really make a difference because my partner and i still use condoms while i'm on the ring. anyways, i just wanted to know what's out there. i've seen some at the drugstores, but i only see the sheets that melt, or the inserts. have you tried any of those or other ones that you can suggest?
and also, is it safe to use personal lubricants when you're using spermicides
thanks!!
Edited 7/10/2004 2:20 am ET ET by badshaw

I’ve used Ortho Options, Gynol II gel which has worked well for me. Get a tube that has an applicator with it or ask the pharmacist for one. CL-judie has used and likes Conceptrol in prefilled applicators. If you use inserts/suppositories be sure to wait about 20 minutes for the insert to melt and spread before you are protected. I’ve tried VCF film but I found it harder to use as it must be placed on the tip of the cervix and if your fingers aren’t dry it could stick to your fingers. Another thing about VCF is that it is so small that there is a much higher concentration (about 28%) of Nonoxynol-9 in it which can make it more likely for anyone sensitive to N9 to develop a reaction. Look on the package to see how the spermicide is intended to be used, alone or with a condom, diaphragm or cap. All you need when you are using a barrier is one with 2% N9 in it.
If you find you or your partner are allergic to N9 you might want to try a natural ingredients spermicide. There is one called Femprotect that is in use in Europe. It has 3.5% lactic acid as the active ingredient and meets requirements for sale in the European Community. There have been no clinical trials of Femprotect and it has not been approved by the FDA for sale in the U.S. If you are interested in Femprotect you can check the Internet. You can also make your own spermicide with aloe vera gel and fresh lemon juice: 4 drops of juice from a fresh lemon (not from a bottle) to a teaspoon of aloe vera. The unused portion can be stored in a glass container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. A baby syringe can be used as an applicator. Let us know what you decide and how you like it, ok?
Good luck,
Jill
If you are thinking of K-Y Plus, a combination lube with Nonoxynol-9, it is no longer available. It was discontinued by the manufacturer.
Jill