Spermicides are a type of contraceptive agent that work by killing sperm. However, it only takes one sperm to fertilize the ovum (the egg) and to achieve conception. Only about 1% of all the sperm released in an ejaculation successfully pass through the woman's vagina and cervix to reach the uterus (the womb). They die because of the vagina's unfriendly environment, which is acidic, and because the mucus in the cervix above the vagina acts as a selective filter for the sperm. However, with the exception of male and female condoms that can provide some protection against infection with sexually-transmitted diseases ( STDs), most methods of barrier contraception are not effective in preventing STDs.ĭuring sexual intercourse, hundreds of millions of sperm are normally released into a woman's vagina. The only medical contraindication to the use of barrier contraception is latex allergy (when using latex condoms). Spermicides, a form of chemical contraceptive that work by killing sperm, are often combined with barrier methods of contraception for greater effectiveness.īarrier methods of contraception generally do not have the side effects of hormonal contraceptives, and some forms of barrier contraception (contraceptive sponges and condoms) may be obtained without a prescription and easily purchased over the counter at pharmacies. The most common forms of barrier contraception are:
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