What is a Vaginal Sponge ? 
 

A vaginal sponge is a soft, doughnut shaped device which is inserted deep into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It is made of either silicone or polyurethane. The sponge contains spermicide inside it which gets activated when you dip the sponge in water. This spermicide kills all the sperms before they can reach the cervix. It can be safely used at home.
It is an every time use solution and if you want a child, simply stop wearing the sponge.

 

Effectiveness: It is 88% effective in women who have never had a child and 76% otherwise
 

How long does it Last:  Vaginal Sponge can not be reused. After each use, you need to replace it with a new one.
It can be inserted in the vagina before sex and must be kept for at-least 6 hours after sex. You can have sex multiple number of times with the sponge on, but remember to leave the sponge for at least 6 hours after the last encounter. Over all, the sponge shouldn't stay for longer than 30 hours in your body.
 

Cost: INR 450 onwards per piece
 

Where to Buy: Available in Pharmacy and Health centres 
 

STD Protection: No
 

Safe During Pregnancy: No
 

Side Effects: 

• Allergy to silicone/polyurethane

• Abnormal vaginal discharge and redness

• Toxic Shock Syndrome

• Urinary Tract Infections when used wrongly

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When to Avoid: 

• In cases of allergy of either partner against silicone/polyurethane/sulfa-drugs

• Had a childbirth/abortion/miscarriage recently

• Previous episodes of Toxic Shock Syndrome

• During the menstrual cycle

• Avoid if your health strictly doesn't allow you to get pregnant (as the effectiveness is low)

 

Wait for 6 weeks after childbirth, before you can use the sponge again.

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