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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staff
The contraceptive sponge is a contraceptive device that prevents sperm from entering the uterus. The contraceptive sponge is a soft, disk-shaped device made of polyurethane foam that covers the cervix. Before sex, the contraceptive sponge is inserted deep into the vagina and held in place by vaginal muscles. The contraceptive sponge has a strap to assist with removal.
Only one contraceptive sponge — Today Sponge — has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in the U.S.
The contraceptive sponge contains spermicide, which blocks or kills sperm. The contraceptive sponge can prevent pregnancy but doesn't offer protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Frequently asked questions: Birth control methods. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/birth-control-methods.pdf. Accessed Sept. 30, 2009.
- Yranski P. New options for barrier contraception. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Neonatal Nursing. 2008;37:384.
- Barrier methods of contraception. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp022.cfm. Accessed Oct. 23, 2009.
- Over-the-counter vaginal contraceptive and spermicide drug products containing nonoxynol-9; Required labeling. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. http://www.fda.gov/OHRMS/DOCKETS/98fr/80n-0280-nfr0003.pdf. Accessed Oct. 23, 2009.
- Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 19th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media, Inc.; 2007:TK.
- Birth control. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/ab020.cfm. Accessed Oct. 23, 2009.
- Zieman M. Overview of contraception. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Oct. 2, 2009.
- Today sponge. Mayer Laboratories Inc. http://www.todaysponge.com/images/pdf/todaysponge-pi.pdf. Accessed Oct. 23, 2009.
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