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 The Male Condom
The Female Condom
Diaphragm
Cervical cap
Contraceptive Sponge
Implants (Norplant)
Shots (Depo-Provera)
Birth Control Pills
IUDs
Emergency Contraception
The Contraceptive Sponge
The contraceptive sponge is a small, pillow-shaped
polyurethane sponge that contains a
spermicide. There is a concave spot on one side of the sponge
that fits over the cervix and
acts both as a barrier for sperm and helps to keep the sponge
in place during intercourse.
The opposite side of the sponge has a small loop to assist in
the sponge's removal after
intercourse. The contraceptive sponge comes in one size and is
available over the counter
at most drugstores. The contraceptive sponge can be inserted
up to 24 hours prior to
intercourse, enabling spontaneous sex, and provides effective
birth control if intercourse
occurs more than once during that period. The sponge is
removed 6 hours after intercourse.
The sponge is often used in
conjunction with other birth control methods, most often
condoms. This adds a second element of pregnancy
prevention, further decreasing the changes of pregnancy.
The contraceptive sponge has
several benefits. These include ease of use,
affordability and comfort. As well, the sponge is
available without a prescription and can be purchased at most
drugstores.
Visit the Reproductive Health
Online website, sponsored by Johns Hopkins University for more
information about
reproductive health and birth control methods. For
information on
teen sexuality and birth control, visit the Sex Etc.
website designed by teens for teens. |
