Vaginal contraceptives. Effective protection from sexually transmitted diseases for women?

The use of vaginal contraceptives reduces the risk of a woman's contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Almost two decades of laboratory data have established the virucidal and bactericidal characteristics of the spermicide nonoxynol-9; clinical trials, albeit limited, have confirmed its effectiveness. The use of spermicides in conjunction with mechanical barriers, such as the condom, diaphragm, contraceptive sponge and cervical cap, may provide optimal STD prophylaxis. Such information should be conveyed to women who are at risk of contracting or transmitting STDs.