In June of 2005, the Today Sponge will return to stores in the USA!
How does it work? | Today Sponge combines a spermicide with a barrier contraceptive. It offers an immediate and continuous presence of the spermicide nonoxynol-9 throughout a 24-hour period, allowing for as many acts of intercourse as desired within that period without the need for additional spermicide. |
How do I use it? | Learning to use Today Sponge has been compared with learning to use contact lenses. With a little practice, insertion and removal become simple procedures. Following these easy steps will ensure proper placement and usage…
Insertion: Removal: |
Pros | Today Sponge does not contain hormones. Comfort: generally neither partner can feel the sponge during intercourse. Effective immediately after insertion. Easy to buy: Sold over-the-counter, without a prescription. No special fitting is required. Its small size allows a woman to carry it in her purse. It is disposable after each use. Not as messy as other spermicidal products. |
Cons | Some women may be allergic to the spermicide — not common. Does not protect against HIV/AIDS, although may provide some protection from other STDs. Do NOT use during your period. Toxic shock syndrome is not common, but can occur. |
Effectiveness | The effectiveness for Today Sponge is 89% to 91% (see Today Sponge product labeling). Another measurement of efficacy is the “use-effectiveness” rate, which measures the level of effectiveness that can be expected by a large group of women, some of whom either fail to use the Sponge correctly or do not use it every time they have intercourse. The use-effectiveness rate for the Sponge is 84% to 87% (see Today Sponge product labeling). |
Side Effects | Allergy to or irritation from the spermicide in it — not common. Do NOT use during your period, some cases of toxic shock syndrome have been reported. |