Contraceptive Sponge Basics

The contraceptive sponge is a simple form of birth control that works much like a diaphragm without a prescription. It is an over-the-counter sponge soaked in spermicide that is inserted in your vagina before intercourse. It can be inserted up to two hours before sexual intercourse and should be left in for eight hours after intercourse. It works both as a barrier form of birth control (because it prevents sperm from reaching the egg using a barrier-the sponge itself) and as a spermicidal contraceptive. It is considered average in effectiveness (when compared to other options such as oral contraceptives, condoms, diaphragms, hormone injections, the female condom and the patch).

The sponge is easy to insert, comfortable and easy to remove. It is also disposable. You can use the same sponge for multiple sexual encounters (as long you leave it in for eight hours after the last incidence and do not leave it in for over 12 hours total). The sponge contraceptive is an efficient way to prevent pregnancy without putting unwanted hormones into your body.

Contraceptive sponges have gotten a bad rap for causing yeast infections and other vaginal infections. They are also not effective at preventing the spread of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). It may be challenging to find a contraceptive sponge in some countries because the biggest producer of contraceptive sponges in the United States (the Today sponge) stopped producing the product in the 1990s because of an FDA investigation into the Today production plant.

The investigation found dangerous bacteria in the production line and demanded that the Today plant upgrade its methods of production to prevent the bacteria problem. The changes mandated were too expensive, thus ending the production of the Today sponge. There are now other companies producing contraceptive sponges, but you may have to look online to find them.