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Compare Birth Control methods

Browse every side-by-side birth control comparison, or select methods from the list to compare your own combination.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
Sponge

Sponge

A soft foam disc placed deep in the vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and contains spermicide.

Second Method

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EfficacyLeast effective see details

Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

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Cost$15–$20 /per package

Insurance: No

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DurationSingle use (can be left in place up to 24 hours and for multiple acts of sex)—
ReversibilityReversible—
STI ProtectionNo—
How it works

A polyurethane foam disc impregnated with spermicide is placed over the cervix before sex. The spermicide kills or disables sperm and the physical barrier blocks sperm from entering the uterus.

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PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTC—
Side effects
  • Vaginal irritation or dryness
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infection
  • Rare allergic reaction
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Who shouldn't use this
  • Allergy to nonoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride, or other spermicide ingredients
  • History of toxic shock syndrome
  • Active vaginal infection
  • Inability to insert or remove reliably
  • High risk of HIV exposure (frequent nonoxynol-9 use may increase vaginal irritation; CDC cautions)
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