Spermicide
vs
Vasectomy

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.
Vasectomy

Vasectomy

A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
Efficacy79% typical use

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

99.85% typical use

Most effective: over 99 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

Cost$1–$3 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$0–$3,500

Insurance: Usually

DurationSingle use (effective for 1 hour; duration varies by formulation, check product label)Permanent
ReversibilityReversiblePermanent
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

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

A clinician cuts, seals, or blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. The body absorbs the sperm, and the semen remains normal in appearance and volume.

PrescriptionOTC Over-the-counterOTC Procedure (in-person)
Available Products2 productsNo branded products yet
Side effects
  • Vaginal or penile irritation
  • Increased risk of UTI
  • Allergic reaction (rare)
  • Mild pain or swelling for a few days
  • Bruising or bleeding at the site
  • Sperm granuloma (small lump, usually harmless)
  • Chronic post-vasectomy pain syndrome (rare, 1-2%)
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)
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires
  • Active local or systemic infection
  • Bleeding disorder