Nonoxynol-9 is a chemical that is widely used in contraceptives for its spermicidal properties.
Table of contents |
2 Condoms 3 Diaphragms 4 Nonoxynol-9 and HIV 5 Side effects 6 Alternatives 7 External links |
As a spermicide, it attacks the acrosomal membranes of a sperm.
The breakdown of this membranes immobilizes the sperm.
As a spermicide, it is sold in cream, jelly, foam, gel, film, and suppository forms in differing strengths.
Some condoms are lubricated with solutions containing nonoxynol-9.
Almost all brands of diaphragm jelly contain nonoxynol-9 as the active ingredient.
In laboratory tests, nonoxynol is thought to triple the risk of HIV infection in women. It is also suspected of breaking down the cellular structure of the vaginal walls and viruses allowing HIV can enter the body easier.
Nonoxynol-9 may increase a person's risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases STD, including HIV, if used frequently.
Frequent use of nonoxynol-9 is also linked to higher risk of urinary infections.
Some people even report allergic reactions.
It possible to test it oneself on the lymph-nodes on the upper thigh by the groin to see if one is hyper sensitive (if so skin is usually red and burning).
Chemically speaking, there are two alternatives to nonoxynol-9 spermicide:
Spermicide
Condoms
Diaphragms
Nonoxynol-9 and HIV
Side effects
Alternatives
For use with a diaphragm a jelly containing lactic-acid may work as a substitute.
Lactic-acid is know to immobilize sperm, too. But in opposite to nonoxynol this immobilization seems to be reversible and is for that reason less reliable.External links