Can spermicides be used while breastfeeding?

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Contraception after childbirth is of great concern to mothers. Because then, mothers need to choose an effective method of contraception that does not affect breast milk supply. Spermicide contraception can help breastfeeding women avoid pregnancy, but it's probably the most effective. Therefore, it should be used in combination with some other contraceptive method.

1. What is spermicide?

Spermicides are substances that kill or damage sperm so they cannot fertilize an egg. They come in many forms, including creams, jellies, foams, soluble films, and suppositories that you insert directly into your vagina right before sex. (Some creams or jellies are designed for use with a diaphragm or cervical cap or diaphragm.) Most contain the active ingredient nonoxynol-9 (N-9).
It is not a good idea to rely solely on spermicide to prevent pregnancy, although it is certainly better than using no method at all. For extra protection, use a spermicide along with a condom or the breastfeeding amenorrhea method (LAM). You should also have a spermicide ready in case you forget to take your birth control pill.

2. How reliable is spermicide to prevent pregnancy?

In essence, spermicides are not highly effective in preventing pregnancy. Rates vary between studies. But typically, about 28% of women who rely solely on spermicide for contraception, eventually get pregnant within the first year of use. That number includes women who don't always use spermicide properly or don't use it every time they have sex.
However, even among women who use spermicide correctly and consistently, up to 18% will still become pregnant within the first year of use. For this reason, experts do not recommend using only spermicide to prevent pregnancy. While inserting spermicide before using a regular condom will give you better protection from pregnancy than using a condom alone, using a condom that has been pre-treated with spermicide does not. . Condoms treated with N-9 are not more effective at preventing pregnancy and are more likely to cause vaginal irritation than other condoms.

3. Can spermicide protect me from sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

In fact, regular use of spermicide N-9 can irritate your genitals and break down tissues leaving you vulnerable to HIV (and possibly other sexually transmitted diseases). other). Do not use spermicide if you are at high risk of HIV infection.
If you are not in a long-term monogamous relationship, use a latex condom for protection or if this is not possible, use a male or female polyurethane condom.

4. Can I use spermicide if I am breastfeeding?

Contraceptives while breastfeeding with spermicides have no known effect on breast milk quality or production and no problems have been noted in the nursing infant.

5. Where can I buy spermicide?

Spermicidal products are available without a prescription and are often sold with condoms in pharmacies and supermarkets, as well as at family planning clinics and online.
Spermicide available foam in pressurized cans. Creams and jellies come in tubes. Some are sold with injectors or in pre-loaded dispensers, and you can also purchase loader, film, and suppositories sold as packs.

6. How do I use spermicide?

First, make sure you have enough product on hand along with applicator, if needed, and that the product is not past its expiration date. You're better off filling it all around, especially with foam, as it's difficult to know how much is left in the can. Store spermicide in a cool, dry place. Some types, such as suppositories and film products, can melt if they get too warm.
Method of use varies depending on the product, so follow the instructions on the label carefully. Before you begin, wash your hands. If you are using foam, shake the can well. If you are using film, make sure your fingers are completely dry before removing the film from the package.
If you are using spermicide with a diaphragm or cervical cap, follow the instructions that came with your device and apply an appropriate amount of jelly or cream before insertion. Otherwise, lie down or squat to insert the spermicide into the vagina. Insert foam, cream or jelly with applicator and suppository or film with fingers. It's important to put the spermicide deep into your vagina to work against your cervix.
Foams, creams and jellies are usually effective immediately. With film and suppository, you usually need to wait 15 minutes after placing before having sex.
In general, a dose of spermicide is good for an hour after you put it on. So if your partner doesn't ejaculate within that time, you'll need to insert more. Remember to add a new dose to every sex, even if it's been less than an hour since the last time.
After your partner ejaculates, spermicide (along with some semen) may leak out of the vagina. You can shower if you like, but don't bathe, wash your vagina, or douche for at least six hours after sex because the chemical needs a chance to kill off all the sperm. You can wear light tampons to absorb the leak. Spermicidal membranes and bio-adhesive jelly tend to be less messy than other products.

7. What if I forget to use spermicides or use them the wrong way?

Should have emergency contraceptive pills ready so that you are mentally prepared if you forget to use or use it incorrectly. The sooner you use emergency contraception after unprotected sex, the more likely you are to prevent pregnancy.

8.Do spermicides have any side effects?

Some women and men may be sensitive to spermicidal products. Usually, the spermicide itself is the culprit, but it can also be one of the other ingredients. There is a possibility of irritation with regular use.
If you notice irritation in your partner's vagina, external genitalia, or penis, stop using the spermicide for a few days to see if it clears up. (Use a condom in the meantime.) If the discomfort doesn't go away, see your caregiver to make sure you don't have a vaginal infection or STI.
If you want to continue using spermicide, ask your caregiver to recommend another spermicide with a different formula and dosage of N-9. (If you're using a latex condom or diaphragm with spermicide, you can try switching to a polyurethane condom or a silicone diaphragm to make sure latex sensitivity isn't an issue.) .) If irritation persists, you will need to find another method of birth control.
N-9 changes the pH balance of the vagina and affects certain beneficial bacteria, making your vagina more susceptible to bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). If you find that you're getting recurrent UTIs, you'll need to choose a birth control method that doesn't require spermicide.

Spermicides also don't taste great, which can reduce the appeal of oral sex, although you can find better flavored versions at stores specialties. Finally, never use a product containing N-9 as a lubricant for anal sex. It can damage the delicate tissues there.

9. Who should not use spermicide?

You will not be able to use spermicide if:
You or your partner are sensitive or allergic to spermicide. You have certain genital tract abnormalities, such as a vaginal septum or a double cervix, that make it difficult for you to properly insert spermicide into your vagina. You are uncomfortable touching yourself or continue to have trouble placing the spermicide correctly. Finally, people at high risk for HIV infection should not use spermicides containing N-9. When used regularly, it can increase your risk of getting sick if you're exposed.
Vinmec International General Hospital is the address for examination, treatment and prevention of many diseases, including the specialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Therefore, if after giving birth, the mother has difficulties in taking care of her children, difficulty in recovering her health, or difficulties in her marital and sexual life, she can come to Vinmec for a check-up. Identify diseases to ensure health as well as have the most comfortable psychology. With the dedication and enthusiasm of the medical team, modern facilities will definitely make you satisfied.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

Reference source: babycenter.com

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