| The Sponge |
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The sponge is a reversible barrier method of birth control. It is inserted deep into the vagina before intercourse. The sponge is made of solid polyurethane foam and contains spermicide. It is soft, round, and about two inches in diameter. It has a nylon loop attached to the bottom for removal. How the Sponge WorksThe sponge is first moistened with water and then inserted into the vagina before intercourse. It covers the cervix and blocks sperm from entering the uterus. It also continuously releases a spermicide that immobilizes sperm, preventing it from joining an egg.
How Well the Sponge WorksSixteen out of 100 women who have never given birth and use the sponge will become pregnant during the first year of typical use. Nine will become pregnant with perfect use. Of 100 women who have given birth and use the sponge, 32 will become pregnant during the first year of typical use. Twenty will become pregnant with perfect use.
The sponge provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Latex and female condoms can reduce the risk of infection. Advantages of the SpongeNo prescription or fitting is needed to use the sponge. Once learned, the insertion of the sponge is easy, and it
Who Can Use the SpongeThe sponge can be used by most women. Some conditions may rule out use:
Women should not use the sponge during any kind of vaginal bleeding, including menstruation. Possible Disadvantages of the SpongeMost women have no side effects. But sometimes
Sponge users may be at slightly increased risk of toxic shock syndrome, which is also associated with the prolonged use of highly absorbent tampons. To minimize such risk
How the Sponge is UsedDetailed instructions for correct use are included in the packaging. Be sure to read and understand them before you use the sponge.
Before inserting the sponge, wet it with at least two tablespoons of clean water. Gently squeeze the sponge. The spermicide will become active when the sponge is thoroughly wet. Fold the sides of the sponge upward and away from the loop on the bottom to make it look long and narrow. Then slide the sponge as far back into your vagina as your fingers will reach. The sponge will unfold and cover the cervix when you let go of it. To make sure the cervix is covered, slide your finger around the edge of the sponge and check its position. You also should be able to feel the nylon loop on the bottom of the sponge. The sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours before intercourse. It must be left in place for at least six hours after the last act of intercourse. It should not be worn for more than 30 hours in a row. To remove the sponge, put a finger inside your vagina and through the loop. Pull the sponge out slowly and gently. Use a sponge only once. Always discard a used sponge in a waste container. Do not flush it down the toilet. How to Get the Sponge and What it CostsThe sponge is scheduled to become available through the manufacturer's Web site starting in July 2005. It should be available in drugstores and supermarkets in Fall 2005. A package of three sponges will cost $7.50-$9.             |
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