Condoms, Gels, Foams, and More

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• Best widely-accessible spermicide: Trojan Ultra Thin Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms
• Best bulk-buy spermicide: Trojan ENZ Armor Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms
• Best spermicide for an enhanced experience: Trojan Ultra Ribbed Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms
• Best portable spermicide product: VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film
• Best spermicide for use with condoms: ForPlay PrePair Spermicidal Water-Based Personal Lubricant
• Best spermicide for easy application: VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Gel
• Best spermicide on a budget: Encare Vaginal Contraceptive Inserts
• Best spermicide for longer-term protection: Today Sponge

Spermicide is a form of nonhormonal birth control. It’s available over the counter (OTC) at drugstores and pharmacies.

It’s a chemical — often nonoxynol-9 — that’s inserted into the vagina before penis-in-vagina sex.

How does spermicide work?

The root word “cide” means “kill” in Latin, according to Planned Parenthood. It’s a little misleading, as spermicide does not necessarily kill sperm.

Instead, depending on the product, it either blocks the cervix so sperm is unable to reach an egg, or makes it more difficult for sperm to move inside the body. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, this effectively kills it.

Spermicide is fairly straightforward to use. Inserting many products feels similar to putting a tampon in, and some come with an applicator for easier insertion.

For others, you can simply use your fingers to apply the spermicide.

Timing is the most important part of using a spermicide product. The window changes from product to product, so it’s best to carefully read the directions before use.

Some products take around 15 minutes to become fully effective, and many only remain effective for around 1 hour after insertion.

Spermicide doesn’t just come in one form. Creams, gels, films, and even condoms coated with the chemical exist.

But it’s one of the less effective birth control methods when used by itself. A 2011 study found that with typical use, around 28 out of 100 people who use it as their sole contraceptive method becoming pregnant each year.

To further lower the chance of becoming pregnant, you can use other barrier contraceptives with spermicide products, like:

• condoms
• cervical caps
• diaphragms

Spermicide also doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so using condoms alongside can help lower the risk.

Here are the various types of spermicide that are available:

Spermicidal condoms

Condoms coated with spermicide can make pregnancy prevention more effective and help protect against STIs in one go.

With perfect use — correctly, on time, without error, and with no breaks or tears — spermicide condoms are around 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.

But this can fall to as low as 70 percent with typical use. Typical use more accurately reflects how the average person uses contraception. This might include, for example, forgetting to use a condom until after pre-cum or ejaculate has already entered the vagina.

Contraceptive films

When inserted into the vagina, these thin sheets start to dissolve and form a thick gel after mixing with vaginal fluids.

Vaginal films typically need to be placed at least 15 minutes before penetrative vaginal sex to allow time for them to dissolve.

How long they’re effective for varies by brand.

One popular brand, VCF, claims to be up to 94 percent effective when used correctly.

Spermicidal jellies

Often used with diaphragms or cervical caps, jelly acts as a lubricant.

It also gives an extra layer of protection if sperm manage to bypass the barrier of a diaphragm or cervical cap.

Spermicidal jelly needs to be inserted as close to the cervix as possible. An applicator is usually included to help.

It works immediately and tends to last for around 1 hour, minimum — sometimes longer.

Contraceptive gel

An alternative lubricant option, this gel is inserted in a similar way to the jelly.

You place the applicator as near to the cervix as possible and push the gel out via the plunger.

Contraceptive gel is also effective straight away, but typically only lasts up to 1 hour.

Effectiveness rates can vary by brand, but VCF claims their gel is up to 94 percent effective when you use it correctly.

Spermicide suppositories

Shaped like a bullet, these solid suppositories are placed into the vagina, where they dissolve into foam.

It takes 10 to 15 minutes for full effectiveness. They tend to only remain effective for 1 hour after insertion.

Contraceptive sponge

Made from soft foam with added spermicide, contraceptive sponges are inserted into the vagina.

They’re effective immediately and provide longer-lasting protection of up to 24 hours.

Often, you’ll be advised to wait at least 6 hours after intercourse before removing the sponge.

Each sponge can only be used once. Planned Parenthood says they’re about 91 to 80 percent effective with perfect use, and 88 to 76 percent effective with typical use.

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right spermicide product for your needs. We selected the following based on:

• scientific research
• clinician recommendations
• customer experience and reviews
• ease of use
• comfort
• cost

Pricing guide

• $ = under $10 per pack
• $$ = $10–$15 per pack
• $$$ = over $15 per pack

Best widely-accessible spermicide

Trojan Ultra Thin Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms

• Price: $
• Pack size: 12 condoms
• Where to get it: OTC or online at Amazon, CVS, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and other local pharmacies

Made from premium quality latex with nonoxynol-9 (7 percent) spermicide, these condoms help lower the risk of pregnancy and STIs.

They’re ultra thin for more sensitivity and aren’t suitable for repeated vaginal sex in one day or for anal sex.

Shop now at Amazon

Best bulk-buy spermicide

Trojan ENZ Armor Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms

• Price: $$$
• Pack size: 36 condoms
• Where to get it: OTC or online at Amazon, CVS, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and other local pharmacies

Trojan classic condoms have a secure fit and the same coating of nonoxynol-9 spermicide for pregnancy prevention and a lower risk of STIs.

They also feature premium quality latex and a smooth lubricant for increased comfort.

Avoid using these if you’re having anal sex or vaginal sex more than once per day.

Shop now at Amazon

Best spermicide for an enhanced experience

Trojan Ultra Ribbed Spermicidal Lubricant Condoms

• Price: $
• Pack size: 12 condoms
• Where to get it: OTC or online at Amazon and Walmart

Although they have an identical spermicidal coating to the previous condoms, these ones have deep ribs for increased stimulation.

Again, they aren’t suitable for anal sex or if you’re having vaginal sex more than once per day.

Shop now at Amazon

Best portable spermicide product

VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film

• Price: $
• Pack size: 9 films
• Where to get it: OTC or online at CVS, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and others

Containing nonoxynol-9 spermicide, these films are effective for up to 3 hours after being placed.

Each film comes in an individually sealed pouch that’s easy to transport. Once inserted and fully dissolved, it shouldn’t be noticeable by either person.

If you have insurance, contraceptive films may be free. However, you may need a prescription to have the cost covered.

Shop now at Walmart

Best spermicide for use with condoms

ForPlay PrePair Spermicidal Water-Based Personal Lubricant

• Price: $
• Pack size: 15 milliliters
• Where to get it: online at Walmart

This Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved spermicidal lubricant is not a contraceptive, but is instead recommended for use with condoms or diaphragms.

It contains nonoxynol-9 (1 percent) and is water-based, so it offers a more natural feel and can be quickly washed off with water, too.

Shop now at Walmart

Best

spermicide for easy application

VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Gel

• Price: $$
• Pack size: 10 applicators
• Where to get it: OTC or online at CVS, Target, Walgreens, Walmart, and others

Each applicator is prefilled with contraceptive gel for easier insertion.

Plus, the gel works straight away and remains effective for around 1 hour after application.

The cost may be covered by insurance. But, if you’re using insurance, a prescription may be required.

Shop now at Target

Best

spermicide on a budget

Encare Vaginal Contraceptive Inserts

• Price: $
• Pack size: 12 inserts
• Where to get it: online at Walmart

Each individually wrapped suppository contains 100 milligrams of the nonoxynol-9 spermicide and dissolves when inserted.

It should be inserted 10 minutes before P-in-V sex and offers protection for up to 1 hour.

Shop now at Walmart

Best

spermicide for longer-term protection

Today Sponge

• Price: $$
• Pack size: 3 sponges
• Where to get it: OTC at pharmacies and supermarkets as well as online at Amazon and Walmart

These contraceptive sponges also contain 1,000 milligrams of nonoxynol-9. They each provide 24-hour protection when inserted.

Contraceptive sponges may be covered by insurance with a prescription. They can also be found for a lower cost or for free at family planning clinics and Planned Parenthood centers.

Shop now at Walmart

Spermicide is safe for most people. It may be a convenient option for those who know in advance when they’re going to have P-in-V sex, and want additional protection against pregnancy on top of barrier methods like condoms.

But there’s still a risk of side effects,particularly skin irritation.

The risk of irritation is higher if you use spermicide multiple times per day. And irritation in genital areas can make it easier for STIs, including HIV, to enter the body.

Signs of irritation or an allergic reaction include:

• a burning sensation when urinating
• feelings of itchiness or soreness
• redness
• unusual discharge

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to discontinue use.

If you can, speak with a health professional. They may recommend trying a different brand or advise alternative forms of contraception altogether.

If spermicide doesn’t seem like the right contraceptive method for you, there are plenty of other options to prevent pregnancy.

These include both hormonal and nonhormonal forms such as:

• condoms
• diaphragms
• intrauterine devices
• birth control pills
• implants
• birth control shot
• birth control patches
• vaginal rings
• cervical caps

More permanent forms include vasectomy (male sterilization) and tubal ligation (female sterilization).

Alternatively, a vaginal gel is now available that is similar to spermicide but does not contain the same potentially irritating ingredient.

Phexxi is only available on prescription and works by lowering vaginal pH to make it hard for sperm to move. Planned Parenthood says it’s around 93 percent effective with perfect use, and 86 percent effective with typical use.

Phexxi is used just before intercourse and works immediately. Pregnancy prevention benefits will last for 1 hour after use.

What are the benefits of spermicide?

While spermicide isn’t right for everyone and isn’t the most effective contraceptive, it does have a number of benefits.

It contains no hormones, so it tends to have fewer side effects than other forms of birth control.

It’s also available OTC, so it doesn’t require a trip to the doctor’s office.

Finally, the method is reversible and often less costly than other forms of contraception.

How effective is spermicide?

Spermicide is around 82 percent effective when used perfectly, according to Planned Parenthood.

But in reality, typical use means about 28 out of 100 people will become pregnant each year when using spermicide as their only contraceptive method.

How long does spermicide work for?

It all depends on the product.

Some products need to be applied at least 15 minutes before P-in-V sex and others are effective straight away.

How long they work for differs, too. Many are only effective for 1 hour after insertion. But some can last for several hours.

Make sure you read the product label before use.

Does spermicide protect against STIs?

No, spermicide offers no protection against STIs. Additional protection, such as condoms, will be needed.

Spermicide can actually increase the risk of transmitting STIs due to the potential for skin irritation.

Are there any spermicide side effects?

Spermicide use may lead to allergic reactions and skin irritation.

Side effects are more common in people who use spermicide multiple times per day.

Spermicide is an easier-to-use contraceptive that relies on a chemical to block sperm. It comes in a variety of forms but is one of the least effective types of modern birth control.

It also offers no protection against STIs and may cause irritation in some people. However, you can buy spermicide OTC, making it accessible and cost effective for many.

If you have any questions about your contraceptive options, consult with a healthcare professional.

Lauren Sharkey is a U.K.-based journalist and author specializing in women’s issues. When she isn’t trying to discover a way to banish migraines, she can be found uncovering the answers to your lurking health questions. She has also written a book profiling young female activists across the globe and is currently building a community of such resisters. Catch her on Twitter.

Common causes, symptoms, and treatments

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

There are several possible reasons for itching around the vulva and vagina. They include irritation due to contact with fabrics or scented soaps, allergies, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and certain skin conditions.

The vulva is the outer part of female genitals, including the lips, clitoris, bladder opening, and vaginal opening. The vagina is the internal tube that leads from the uterus to the vulva.

People may experience itching around the vulva or inside the vagina. The specific symptoms and treatments will depend on the cause.

This article provides an overview of some common causes of vaginal and vulvar itching, along with links to more detailed articles.

Share on PinterestAllergic reactions are a possible cause of vulvar and vaginal itching.

Minor vulvar itching often results from using products that irritate the sensitive skin around the genitals. These may include:

• menstrual pads
• certain materials in underwear
• underwear washed with scented laundry detergent
• creams, soaps, or lotions, especially scented brands
• latex condoms
• fragrances in deodorants or douches

The itching will usually go away after the person stops using these products. Fragrance-free and unscented products are less likely to cause irritation.

Healthcare professionals do not recommend using products to clean the vagina. The vagina cleans itself. Douches and other vaginal cleaning products can cause irritation and impair its ability to clean itself.

Friction or chafing from underwear, skin folds, or sexual activity can also cause itching in this area.

Avoid scratching or rubbing the skin when it feels itchy, as this can make the itching worse.

People who suspect that they might be allergic to latex can ask their doctor about alternatives to latex condoms. Latex-free condoms are available to buy over the counter and online.

Many females will experience a vaginal yeast infection, or vaginal candidiasis, during their lifetime. Yeast infections develop due to an overgrowth of Candida in the vagina.

Yeast infections are not usually serious, but the symptoms can be bothersome.

Symptoms of yeast overgrowth can include:

• vaginal itching or burning
• odorless white or clear discharge
• vaginal irritation

Yeast infections usually occur when something upsets the balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Normally, a balance of beneficial bacteria and yeast live in the vagina. The bacteria keep the yeast in check, preventing overgrowth. When the vagina’s bacteria do not properly control the yeast, however, overgrowth can occur.

Some common causes of yeast infections include hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or due to using hormonal birth control, and using a douche.

People can also develop a yeast infection from using antibiotics. Having a suppressed immune system or uncontrolled diabetes may also increase the risk of yeast infections.

Learn more about yeast infections and how to get rid of them here.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common bacterial infection. It often affects females of childbearing age. It occurs when there is an imbalance of the normal beneficial bacteria in the vagina.

People can have BV with no symptoms. If symptoms do arise, they may include:

• itching, pain, or burning inside the vagina
• itching around the outside of the vagina
• thin white or gray vaginal discharge
• an unpleasant odor, especially after sex

It can be difficult to tell the difference between BV and a yeast infection. Learn more here.

Healthcare professionals do not know the exact causes of BV, but some have linked sexual activity and douching to the condition.

It affects people who are sexually active, but it is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Many females have BV without knowing it. This can be harmful if they become pregnant. If a woman has symptoms while pregnant or trying to become pregnant, they should see their doctor to find out the cause.

Learn more about BV and how to treat it here.

Common skin conditions can cause itching around the vulva. These include:

• psoriasis
• seborrheic dermatitis
• allergic contact dermatitis
• folliculitis
• dermographism, or skin writing

Severe itching around the vulva can indicate lichen sclerosus or lichen planus.

If a person suspects any of these skin conditions, they can work with their healthcare professional to find the best treatment strategies.

STIs are a group of infections that a person can contract after having sexual contact with a person who has one.

Various STIs can cause vaginal or vulvar itching or discomfort, including:

• genital herpes
• trichomoniasis
• genital warts

It is important to seek treatment for STIs, as some can cause long-term problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or pregnancy complications. Women can also pass certain STIs to the baby during childbirth.

A person should always seek treatment if they suspect an STI.

Less commonly, healthcare professionals may look for neuropathy or vulvar cancer.

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is a well-known cause of itching.

Vulvar cancer causes symptoms such as persistent itching, burning, and bleeding. This type of cancer is rare, accounting for 0.7% of all cancers in females in the United States.

The American Cancer Society do not list vaginal itching as a symptom of vaginal cancer.

Vulvar and vaginal itching are common and have many potential causes. In many cases, the itching is due to irritation from clothing, menstrual products, or fragrances. Avoiding these triggers can help prevent the itching.

In other cases, fungal or bacterial infections may be the cause. This is more likely when the itching affects the inside of the vagina.

Some skin conditions can also cause itching around the genitals, including psoriasis, folliculitis, and seborrheic dermatitis.

A healthcare professional can usually diagnose the cause and suggest some appropriate treatments. In most cases, the cause is treatable.

Itching in the vagina – causes, what to do and how to treat

2020-12-17

Gynecological pathologies are an extensive group of diseases of infectious or non-infectious origin, which a doctor can diagnose based on the results of examinations. Diseases of the female genital area have characteristic symptoms that significantly impair the quality of life. Common symptoms include itching in the vagina, which should not be ignored, as it can be a sign of quite serious diseases.

Causes of vaginal itching

Itching in the vagina is not a disease, but only a symptom that indicates a particular disorder in a woman’s body. There are a lot of reasons for its development, therefore, before starting treatment, the doctor will prescribe a comprehensive examination to the patient, which will help identify the etiology of the disease and select the most effective treatment. Vaginal itching may be present in the following cases:

Bacterial infections: candidiasis, vaginosis.
1. Sexually transmitted infections: trichomoniasis, chlamydia, genital herpes.
2. Inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs: cervicitis, adnexitis, endometritis, cervical erosion.
3. Allergy to underwear, hygiene products, birth control pills, food.
4. Poor hygiene of the genitals.
5. Hormonal imbalance.
6. External factors: wearing low-quality or tight underwear, stress, nervous strain.

In addition to the underlying causes, vaginal itching is often present in women who have diabetes or endocrine problems. Such a symptom is not an indicator for making a diagnosis or prescribing therapy, so the doctor also pays attention to other manifestations, as well as the results of studies that the woman will appoint at the initial consultation after a gynecological examination and anamnesis.

Associated symptoms

Itching in the vagina is not the only symptom that can bother a woman. Clinical signs directly depend on the etiology of the disease, the stage of development, and the characteristics of the female body. As practice shows, vaginal itching is accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms:

• increased vaginal dryness, burning;
• skin rash;
• discharge of a different nature: from cheesy white to brown and bloody;
• bad smell;
• pain, discomfort in the lower abdomen or in the lumbar region;
• elevated body temperature;
• extreme mood swings;
• weakness, increased fatigue.

If you ignore itching, constant scratching increases the risk of a secondary infection, which will only worsen the prognosis for a quick recovery. Many diseases of the female genital area have similar symptoms, so when it appears, you do not need to hesitate to visit a gynecologist. The sooner the cause is identified and treated, the sooner a woman can get rid of unpleasant symptoms.

What treatment can be prescribed by a doctor

A gynecologist or venereologist deals with the treatment of itching in the vaginal area, but consultation of related specialists, in particular a dermatologist, allergist, neurologist, may be required. Therapy is prescribed only after a comprehensive examination, directly depends on the underlying cause, may include the following medications:

1. Antibacterial and antimicrobial. They are prescribed if the source of the disease is the bacterial flora. Taking antibiotics will help to destroy the pathogenic pathogen, to exclude its reproduction and spread. The doctor chooses the medicine: it can be both tablets and injections, as well as topical preparations in the form of vaginal suppositories.
2. Antifungals. Shown in diseases that are caused by fungal pathogens, often of the genus Candida.
3. Antihistamines. Eliminate itching, suppress an allergic reaction, relieve tissue swelling.
4. Hormonal. Appointed by an endocrinologist strictly according to indications.
5. Sedatives.
6. Vitamins.

Medications are prescribed by a doctor individually for each woman, based on the diagnosis, stage of the disease, and characteristics of the body. The duration of therapy can take from a couple of days to several weeks. The doctor also gives valuable advice on nutrition and lifestyle. As an adjunct therapy, various baths based on medicinal plants can be prescribed, which relieve itching, inflammation and irritation.

If itching is caused by fungal or bacterial flora, sexually transmitted diseases, treatment is prescribed not only for the woman, but also for her sexual partner.

Prevention

Itching in the vagina as a sign of illness is very common, causing not only physical but also mental discomfort. To reduce the risk of its development, women need to follow some rules:

• regular hygiene;
• preventive examinations at the gynecologist 2 times a year;
• avoid unprotected intercourse;
• take contraceptives as prescribed by a doctor;
• healthy and proper nutrition;
• wearing quality underwear;
• Use hypoallergenic intimate care products.

The main rule that women should adhere to when itching in the vagina appears is the refusal of self-treatment, contacting a doctor. It is important to understand that such a symptom may be a sign of a banal skin irritation or a symptom of a serious illness. Therefore, the sooner a woman turns to a specialist, the sooner she will get rid of discomfort and a possible disease.

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Itching in the vagina, burning, discharge: causes, treatment

Almost every woman has experienced itching and burning in the vagina at least once in her life. This violation is quite rare on its own – in most cases it is accompanied by other gynecological symptoms:

• secretions of various colors and textures;
• the appearance of an unpleasant odor;
• pain syndrome in the pelvic area;
• difficulty urinating;
• dryness of the mucous membranes of the vagina.

Regardless of the severity of itching, it cannot be ignored. Often it is the first manifestation of many gynecological diseases, so timely seeking advice from a specialist can save you from serious complications and long-term therapy. In addition, it is impossible in such situations to rely on self-diagnosis and alternative methods of treatment. Only a professional gynecologist is able to correctly determine the cause of itching and choose the right treatment tactics.

Causes of vaginal itching

According to the statistics of “SM-Clinic”, most often this disorder is caused by a variety of infections that affect the genitals of a woman.

Candidiasis

First of all, yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida should be distinguished from such infectious agents, which cause the development of candidiasis, or thrush. A small amount of Candida fungi is always present in a healthy woman, but the peculiarity of this disease is that when exposed to some third-party factors (massive antibiotic therapy, impaired immune status, concomitant infections), these fungi begin to multiply actively and give rise to the disease.

Other infectious diseases

The list of gynecological pathologies caused by various infectious agents is very large:

• chlamydia;
• ureaplasmosis;
• trichomoniasis;
• donovanosis, or inguinal granuloma;
• gonorrhea;
• mycoplasmosis;
• genital herpes;
• genital warts;
• molluscum contagiosum.

In all cases, without exception, itching is only one of the symptoms of the disease. Therefore, the doctors of the “SM-Clinic” direct their efforts to the treatment of the main pathology: an infectious and inflammatory lesion of the vagina, cervix, and the initial parts of the urethra. And after the main disease is defeated, itching and burning, as its manifestations, will also disappear.

Noncommunicable disorders

Itching and burning in the vagina can be the result of other pathologies and disorders:

• some types of intoxication;
• helminthic invasion;
• diseases of the digestive tract and urinary system;
• improper diet;
• constant use of tight underwear made of synthetic materials;
• psycho-emotional disorders and stress;
• allergic reactions to detergents, drugs, contraceptives, sperm of a sexual partner.

At an older age (mainly after the onset of menopause), itching in the vagina can also be a symptom of the appearance of urethral fistulas, benign or malignant neoplasms of the urogynecological sphere, and atrophic changes in the mucous membranes.

What to do if itches

Do not wait for the symptoms to go away on their own – it is better to immediately consult a doctor. The SM-Clinic gynecologist conducts an external examination and, if necessary, prescribes a number of laboratory tests. The most important is the sowing of the microflora of the vagina. This examination gives an unequivocal answer to the question of which infectious agent led to the onset of itching, and therefore, which medicine is most effective.

Based on the tests, the doctor of our clinic selects an antibiotic (oral and / or local – in the form of vaginal suppositories) and draws up an individual scheme for its use. It should be strictly adhered to, even if at some stage of therapy the clinical symptoms begin to disappear.

If you do not complete the treatment, there is a high probability that the pathology will become chronic – the infection will go into a latent, latent state, creating the illusion of a complete recovery.