How do I buy spermicides and how should they be used?

Spermicides generally come in the form of jellies, creams or foams. You can buy them in pharmacies and some grocery stores.

You can also buy condoms with a small amount of spermicide already applied. But some experts believe it's a good idea to add more spermicide to the amount that comes on the condom.

If you do add spermicide, place a small amount inside the condom at its tip. After the condom is on the penis, put more on the outside. Spermicides can also be put inside the woman's vagina. Follow the directions for use.

If you have oral sex, use a condom without a spermicide. Although swallowing small amounts of spermicide has not proven harmful in animal test, we don't know if this is always true for people.

Spermicide products and condoms with spermicides have expiration dates. Don't buy or use a package that is outdated.

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Reprinted from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)