Spermicide
vs
Sponge

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
Spermicide

Spermicide

A chemical gel, foam, or film inserted into the vagina before sex to disable sperm, available over the counter.
Sponge

Sponge

A soft foam disc placed deep in the vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and contains spermicide.
Efficacy79% typical use

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

Least effective see details

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

Cost$1–$3 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$15–$20 /per package

Insurance: No

DurationSingle use (effective for 1 hour; duration varies by formulation, check product label)Single use (can be left in place up to 24 hours and for multiple acts of sex)
ReversibilityReversibleReversible
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

A chemical (usually nonoxynol-9) immobilizes or kills sperm on contact. Inserted into the vagina before sex.

A 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.

PrescriptionOTC Over-the-counterOTC No prescription / OTC
Available Products2 products1 product
Side effects
  • Vaginal or penile irritation
  • Increased risk of UTI
  • Allergic reaction (rare)
  • Vaginal irritation or dryness
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infection
  • Rare allergic reaction
Who shouldn't use this
  • Sensitivity to nonoxynol-9
  • Active vaginal irritation or infection
  • High risk of HIV exposure (frequent use may increase transmission risk)
  • 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)