What type of spermicides is available and how quickly do they become effective?
• Jelly, cream and foam spermicides are effective immediately after application. • Spermicidal suppositories need 10 to 15 minutes to dissolve and disperse throughout the vagina before they are effective. • The vaginal contraceptive film is a two-by-two inch sheet of film resembling wax paper. It contains 72 mg of nonoxonol-9, and needs five minutes to melt and disperse prior to becoming effective. • Advantage 24 is a bioadhesive jelly that adheres to the cervix and vagina, slowly releasing nonoxynol-9. It provides protection for up to 24 hours prior to a single act of intercourse unlike most spermicides, which are good for one hour only. With repeated acts of intercourse additional spermicide is required.
