The Spermicide is a chemical compound in the form of creams, gels, films, or foams that is inserted into the vagina before having sex. The chemical in spermicide kills sperm, preventing the sperm from travelling through the cervix which reduces the risk of pregnancy.
You can get spermicide films, gels, or foams at a pharmacy without a prescription. While not every pharmacy will carry spermicide on the shelf, you can often ask pharmacies to order spermicide for you. Some spermicides have specific instructions for use (like waiting 10 minutes after inserting into the vagina and only being effective for an hour after insertion), but generally you insert the spermicide into the vagina as far up as you can reach. Leave the spermicide inside the vagina after sex to ensure it kills all the sperm.
Spermicide is about 72% effective at preventing pregnancy with typical use and in Ottawa is approximately $12 for a box of 9 films or $14 for a foam package. If you have more questions, feel free to call us at PPO.