What do I need to know about the spermicide Nonoxynol-9?
Nonoxynol-9 (N-9) is the active ingredient in all over-the-counter spermicidal products available in the U.S., including suppositories, foam, film, gel, and cream. Diaphragms and caps are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in conjunction with spermicidal gels and creams. N-9 is also used with some condoms as a spermicidal lubricant. N-9 has long been considered a safe and effective contraceptive method. It is still considered a safe method for women at low risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, who do not use the product more than once a day.
