Will using condoms with spermicide that contains nonoxynol-9 lower my chances of HIV infection?
Originally, nonoxynol-9 was believed to aid in reducing the risk of HIV infection along with infection of other STDs. However, recent studies have shown this to not be true. In fact, nonoxynol-9 may actually increase a person risk of contracting HIV, especially if it is used frequently. This is because the chemical can irritate the vaginal and rectal lining, thereby make a person more susceptible to infection. For this reason, spermicides are no longer recommended as protection against HIV and STDs. Additionally, more condom manufacturers are no longer producing spermicidal condoms while those who still do are using less spermicide.
