- What is the birth control sponge?
The birth control sponge is a small, circular plastic sponge. It must be put inside the vaginal canal before sexual intercourse.
- How does it work?
Pregnancy is prevented because it covers the cervix and this blocks entry to the uterus. The birth control sponge also contains spermicide which slows down sperm from reaching your eggs. The sponge can be put in up to 24 hours before sexual intercourse, it starts working as soon as you wet it before inserting it (water activates the spermicide). It must be left in for at least six hours after sexual intercourse, but no more than 40 hours to avoid infections.
- Does it prevent STDs?
No, the birth control sponge does not protect against STDs or STIs.
- Effectiveness
It is 76-88% effective when used correctly.
- Cost
The birth control sponge can cost anywhere from $0 to $15 for three sponges, depending on insurance coverage.
- Maintenance
The sponge must be wet and inserted before sexual intercourse. Once it’s inserted, you can leave it in up to 30 hours. You can have sexual intercourse as much as you want with it for 24 hours. But you must leave it in for 6 hours after your last sexual intercourse (hence 30 hours of usage – 24 hours for sexual intercourse + 6 hours of no sexual intercourse for removing it). Once it’s removed, throw it out. Birth control sponges are not reusable.
- Advantages
No prescription is needed (sold over the counter)
It starts working as soon as you insert it
It is hormone-free
- Disadvantages/Side Effects
Must be inserted every time before sexual intercourse
Can be hard to insert
Can be hard to remove
Some people might be sensitive to the spermicide
If skin irritation is caused by the spermicide, it can increase your risk for STDSs and STIs
May lead to Toxic Shock Syndrome
Some partners can feel it during sexual intercourse
It can either be too wet for some people or it can absorb vaginal wetness and lead to dry sex
- Prescription/Doctor Requirement
No prescription or doctor appointment is required for the birth control sponge.
Images by Billie and Johann LIBOT from Unsplash.
