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SPERMICIDE

THE ADDED EXTRA.

DOESN’T ACT ALONE

Spermicides aren't very effective when used on their own and are best combined with a barrier method such as a condom or a diaphragm. There are many different types available, from foams to creams and pastes, but they all work in much the same way. Chemicals in spermicides make it difficult for sperm to move in the vagina.

Since spermicides are best used with another form of contraception, the directions on how to use them will depend on the barrier method they are applied to. The important thing is to pay close attention to the spermicide's expiry date, and to leave it in the vagina for at least 6 hours after you've had sex. Some women experience allergic reactions or irritation caused by the chemicals in spermicide, so if you have any questions or concerns about spermicide, consult your doctor or nurse.

Spermicides do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.    

Spermicide Contraceptive

HOW IT MEASURES UP

Typical use means how well the method works in real life and perfect use means how well a method works under 'perfect' or ideal conditions for example when there is no user error at any time.

72% - Compare Contraceptive Methods 72% - Compare Contraceptive Methods

72% EFFICACY WITH TYPICAL USE

Spermicide is 72% effective with “typical use” meaning that 28 women out of every 100 using this method for one year will become pregnant.

Spermicides are self-administered and bought over the counter. They shouldn't be used alone, and they require a little planning and a little care to use. They are less effective than other methods of contraception.

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82% - Compare Contraceptive Methods 82% - Compare Contraceptive Methods

82% EFFICACY WITH PERFECT USE

Spermicide is 82% effective with “perfect use” meaning that 18 women out of every 100 using this method for one year will become pregnant.

Spermicides are self-administered and bought over the counter. Their efficacy rises dramatically when they are combined with a barrier method such as a condom or a diaphragm. When used perfectly, they can be effective at preventing pregnancy.

View ’Perfect’ Use Efficacy Rate

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HORMONES

No. Spermicide is hormone-free but does contain chemicals.

EASE OF USE

Spermicide needs to be applied prior to intercourse, each time you have sex.

YOUR PERIOD

Spermicide has no impact on menstruation.

COMPARE METHODS

NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL

Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

The
IUS

The Hormonal Coil is a small, soft T-shaped plastic frame that releases low levels of a progestogen hormone for up to 3 to 8 years. It is given with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse.

IUS - HormonalCoil - CompareMethods

THE
IUD

The Copper Coil is a small, T-shaped plastic frame that has a copper wire. it is given with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse, where it prevents pregnancy for up to 5 to 10 years.

IUD_CopperCoil_Blue_CompareMethods

THE
Contraceptive Implant

A small, flexible silicone rod that releases hormones for up to 3 years. It is given with a prescription and placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse. 

Contraceptive_Implant_CompareMethods

THE
Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COCP)

COCPs are tablets that may have to be taken every day, releasing the hormone progestogen and oestrogen to prevent pregnancy. They are often referred to as the pill and you will need a prescription from your healthcare professional for these. 

Pill_COCP_POP_CompareMethods

THE
Contraceptive Injection

An injection containing a hormone that is given with a prescription and administered by a doctor or nurse every 12-13 weeks.

Contraceptive_Injection_CompareMethods

THE
Patch

A small, thin, skin-coloured plastic square that sticks to the skin and releases hormones. It is given with a prescription and can be self-administered once a week.

The_Patch_CompareMethods

THE
Diaphragm

A silicone cup placed in the vagina that prevents sperm from reaching the womb. Your doctor or nurse will normally conduct an initial fitting to make sure you have the correct size.

Contraception_Diaphragm_CompareMethods

THE
Ring

A small, flexible ring that is self-administered with a prescription and placed in the vagina, where it releases hormones for 3 weeks.

Ring_CompareMethods

THE
Female Condom

An internal condom placed in the vagina that stops sperm from reaching the vagina whilst also helping protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is self-administered and bought over the counter.

Female_Condom_Contraception

THE
MALE CONDOM

A sheath placed over the erect penis to stop sperm from reaching the vagina whilst also helping protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is self-administered and bought over the counter.

Male_Condom_ShortActing

THE
Progestogen-only Pill (POP)

POPs are tablets which have to be taken every day at the same time with no break between packs. These pills only contain a progestogen hormone and so they can be taken by women for whom oestrogen-containing options are not suitable. They are also known as the mini-pill and you will need a prescription from your healthcare professional for these..

Pill_COCP_POP_CompareMethods

NATURAL
PLANNING

Self-directed methods of avoiding pregnancy that include menstrual cycle tracking and body temperature measurements to identify fertile days.

Natural Planning - Compare Methods

SPERMICIDE

Spermicides are Creams, films, foams, gels and suppositories that contain chemicals to stop or kill sperm. These are bought over the counter and are self-administered.

Spermicide_Compare_Contraceptive_Methods

WITHDRAWAL

Also known as ‘The pull-out method’, this self-directed method involves withdrawing the penis prior to ejaculation to avoid pregnancy.

Withdrawal - Contraception Method

FEMALE
STERILIZATION

A medical procedure performed by a doctor or nurse that blocks the fallopian tubes so the egg cannot travel down the tubes to meet the sperm. 

Female Sterilisation - Permanent Method

MALE
STERILIZATION

A medical procedure performed by a doctor or nurse that blocks the tubes carrying sperm.

Male Sterilisation - Permanent Method
COMPARE METHODS

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© Bayer Limited. All rights reserved

Date of last update: 29/08/2023

This website has been developed to raise awareness of the different contraceptive options available in Ireland.

Always speak to your doctor or nurse for personal advice. Health information in this website is intended as general information only and for Irish audiences only. It is not intended to replace a consultation with a healthcare professional, nor is it intended to provide specific medical advice.

If you want to report a side effect or quality complaint, please contact your health care professional (e.g. treating physician or pharmacist), Health Products Regulatory Authority, or go to the “Contact Us” menu at www.bayer.ie

The MyContraception campaign has been initiated, organised and funded by Bayer Ltd.

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