j----_. - New York Civil Liberties Union

Mahopac 147
Risks and disadvantages:
a) There are no health risks associated with foam.
b) You have to insert the foam just before sex.
c) Some people may have an allergic reaction or skin irritation. The couple can try another
brand.
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Effectiveness
and advantages:
a) Iffoam is used every time with a latex condom, the combined method works almost all of
the time as a birth control and STD prevention method.
b) Foam used alone is fairly effective (85-90%) if it is used correctly and every time.
c) Like condoms, foam is a good method for people who don't have sex on a regular basis
because it is used only when needed.
5. The contraceptive sponge is a soft, cap-shaped sponge designed to fit over the cervix. The
sponge releases spermicidal chemicals that kill sperm that try to get through the cervix. It is
another method that can be purchased without a prescription at any drugstore or family
planning clinic. There is no age limit for purchasing the sponge.
Risks and disadvantages:
a) There have been a few documented cases of the contraceptive sponge causing or
contributing
to toxic shock syndrome.
Therefore, to be safe, women who use the sponge should not leave it in place longer than
30 hours and should not use the sponge during their menstrual period or if they have ever
had tax ic shock syndrome.
b) Some women experience a burning sensation and have difficulty removing the sponge.
c) Some women find it difficult to put the sponge in and take it out.
d) Some women don't want to touch their sexual parts or put anything inside their vagina.
e) The sponge absorbs the vagina's natural moisture during sex.
t) The sponge does not protect against HIV infection.
Effectiveness
and advantages:
a) The sponge is 85%-98% effective as a birth control method.
b) Because the sponge can be inserted up to 24 hours in advance of intercourse, it does not
interfere with spontaneity.
c) The sponge offers continuous protection for 24 hours.
d) The sponge can be easily used by people who don't have sex regularly.
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Inform students that there are other pregnancy prevention methods available, such as the
diaphragm, IUD, cervical cap, vasectomy, and tubal ligation, but these methods are not often
chosen by teenagers
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