Condoms and Spermicides

The Condom

What is it?

The condom is a latex sheath, or cover, that fits over the penis or, in the case of the female condom, fits into the vaginal opening. In either case, the condom has not been shown to be totally effective either in the prevention of pregnancy or protection from AIDS.

Is the condom safe?

No. Here are a few of the problems:

• leakage, which means sperm do get pass the condom
• high failure rates due to breakage and incorrect use
• barrier methods such as the condom and the diaphragm have been associated with increased incidence of pre-eclampsia in couples who have used them
• condoms may or may not protect the user and the user's partner from gonorrhea, chlamydia,genital herpes, AIDS and other strains of venereal (sexually transmitted) disease
• particles of talc found on some condoms can enter the body of the woman and irritate there tissues, potentially causing infertility or cancer
• a condom is softened when used wit spermicides; the ability of sperm or viral infections to penetrate the condom even less effective
• if condoms are not stored at the recommended temperature, they will not work.

Spermicide

What is it?

A spermicide is a chemical that kills sperm. One type of spermicide, Nonoxynol-9, is the main active ingredient in nearly all popular brands (foams, creams, jellies, vaginal tablets, suppositories and sponges). ther are many brand names of spermicides, including Ortho-Creme, Gynol II, Semicid, Conceptrol and delfen.

A spermicide can be used alone as a method of birth control. But because the failure rate is so high, it is often used with condom.

Do spermicides have a side effects?

Yes. Some effect either women or men:

• vaginal or penile irritation and itching
• vaginal or penile soreness

Spermicides also offer no protection against sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS.

There are additional side effects for women:

• vaginal discharge
• vaginal dryness
• painful urination
• toxic shock syndrome (when used with a sponge)
  

Condoms and spermicides fail to prevent the conception of babies, and they are potentially harmful!

What is my best option?

Some people may try to convince you that condoms and spermicides are totally without risk. But that is not true.

Do not depend on condoms and spermicides. They could be harmful to you.

Chastity is the best choice for single people. It helps you stay healthy and assures that you will not be faced with so-called emergency in the first place. If you are married, be faithful to your spouse; and if you really have sufficient reason to avoid having a baby right now, learn about the natural family planning.

Why take chances with physical or emotional health when you have such excellent options?

Be good to yourself. Don't use condoms and spermicides.