Spermicidal activity of a new contraceptive sponge.

An open, crossover study evaluated the spermicidal efficacy and irritative potential of the Protectaid sponge. Postcoital tests were conducted in nine healthy couples under control conditions (no sponge) and with the sponge. Microscopic examination of postcoital mucus from the female partners showed that sperm entered the cervix in all nine controls, whereas entry was completely prevented by the sponge in four of nine women. None of the participants showed colposcopic evidence of mucosal irritation while using the sponge. Colposcopic abnormalities were evident in two of nine women during control testing. The urgent need for female-controlled contraceptive methods with the potential to protect against sexually transmitted diseases makes this low-dose spermicidal vaginal sponge an effective and safe alternative.