How to Use Spermicides
To use a spermicide, try using a foam, cream, or jelly spermicide. First, fill the applicator tube with the product. Then, get into a comfortable position, such as lying on your back, since the spermicide needs to be inserted deep inside your vagina. Once you're in position, gently insert the tube into your vagina. Next, squeeze the spermicide out. If you find the applicator uncomfortable, use your finger instead, but make sure you use the same amount of spermicide. Remember that spermicide is effective for about an hour, so you'll need to apply it every time you have sex. You should also try to use spermicide with a condom, since the spermicide alone won't protect you from STDs.
Fill the plastic applicator tube with spermicide. Your foam, cream, or jelly spermicide will come with an applicator tube. Fill the applicator as indicated on the packaging. This amount will vary between different spermicide products. Foam, cream, and jelly spermicides are equally effective but may be more or less comfortable to use for different people based on their personal preferences. If you are using foam spermicide, shake the can carefully before squeezing the product out into the applicator tube. Get into a comfortable position to insert the spermicide. In order to be effective, spermicide will need to be inserted deep into your vagina, near your cervix. Get into a position that will allow you to do this comfortably. This position will depend entirely on your personal preference. Lying on your back, for instance, may make it easier for you to insert the spermicide comfortably. Alternatively, standing with one foot on a chair or squatting may be more comfortable for you. Insert the tube into your vagina and push the product out of the tube. Gently insert the applicator tube into your vagina as deep as it will go. Once it is inserted, slowly press down on the plunger part of the applicator to release the product. This should position the spermicide near the entrance of your cervix. Wash or discard the applicator after using it. Apply the spermicide with your finger as an alternative to using the applicator. The plastic applicator provided may not be comfortable for everyone to use. If you do not wish to use it, squeeze the product out onto your finger instead and insert in into your vagina as deeply as you can. Be sure to use the entire amount of spermicide that you would be using with the applicator. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after the application. Apply spermicide directly to your diaphragm if you use one. If you are using spermicide with a diaphragm for additional pregnancy prevention, apply the product directly into the diaphragm cup. Fold the diaphragm in half and insert it into your vagina as far as you can, making sure that the opening is facing your cervix. Make sure that your cervix is covered. Leave the diaphragm in for at least 6 hours after the last time you have sex. Reapply spermicide after an hour, or every time you have sex. A full "dose" of spermicide must be used each time you have intercourse, or after an hour, when it will wear off. Keep your spermicide handy to reapply it when necessary. To avoid forgetting to reapply it, set an alarm for an hour after you first use the spermicide. Don't insert spermicide more than 60 minutes before having sex as it will not be effective. If you are using a diaphragm, apply more spermicide to the inside of your vagina each additional time you have sex, without removing the diaphragm. Insert the film or suppository with your finger. Hold the film or suppository near the entrance or your vagina. Using a clean finger, push the product up into the vagina. Insert it as far as it will go so that it is positioned near your cervix. Note that the film will melt into a spermicidal gel, while the suppository will melt into a spermicidal cream. If you are inserting a film spermicide, place your finger near the middle of the film before insertion to position it evenly. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting the film or suppository. Do not try to place the film on top of the penis. It won't have enough time to dissolve and may not properly meet the cervix. Wait at least 15 minutes before having sex. Once the suppository or film is inserted, it will need time to melt completely. Wait at least 10 minutes before engaging in sexual activity to ensure that the product is thoroughly dissolved. Doing so before may render the spermicide ineffective at preventing pregnancy.  Note that inserting film or suppository spermicide more than 60 minutes before having sex will kill its effectiveness. Insert the spermicide up to one hour prior to sex. Insert a new dose after an hour, or every time you have sex. Like foam, cream, or jelly spermicide, film and suppository spermicides wear off after an hour. They are also rendered ineffective after each time you have sex. Keep extra products on hand to replace the spermicide when necessary. Visit your doctor to discuss using spermicide. Talk to your doctor before buying and using a spermicide. Tell them about any prescription or nonprescription medications you are using to prevent any possible interactions with other drugs. You should also tell them about other medical issues that might prevent safe spermicide use, such as: A history of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Allergies, irritations, or infections of the genitals Irritation of the vagina or rectum Recent child birth or abortion Use spermicide with a condom to prevent STDs. Spermicide on its own will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. For protection against both pregnancy and STDs, use a condom and spermicide at the same time. If you are using cream or jelly spermicide, divide the dose to apply equal parts to the tip of the condom your partner is wearing and the inside of your vagina. Make sure that the spermicide is safe for use with condoms so it won't weaken the latex. Condoms are more effective at protecting against STDs without spermicide but wearing a condom with the product is more effective than not using one. Contact your doctor right away if you notice negative side effects. In rare cases, spermicides may cause adverse reactions when used. This may indicate an allergy, which can be dealt with by trying a different spermicide or moving to a new form of birth control. Contact you doctor if you experience: Bloody or cloudy urine Skin rash, redness, or irritation Pain in the lower abdomen Frequent urination Thick, white vaginal discharge 
Fill the plastic applicator tube with spermicide. Get into a comfortable position to insert the spermicide. Insert the tube into your vagina and push the product out of the tube. Apply the spermicide with your finger as an alternative to using the applicator. Apply spermicide directly to your diaphragm if you use one. Reapply spermicide after an hour, or every time you have sex. Insert the film or suppository with your finger. Wait at least 15 minutes before having sex. Insert a new dose after an hour, or every time you have sex. Visit your doctor to discuss using spermicide. Use spermicide with a condom to prevent STDs. Contact your doctor right away if you notice negative side effects. 