vaginal sponge

contraceptive

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

The vaginal sponge is a barrier method of birth control. It is a disposable, soft, porous device that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix. The sponge is permeated with spermicide, which helps to kill sperm and improve the effectiveness of the barrier method. It can be worn for up to 24 hours.123

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contraception
Barrier devices
…condom (vaginal pouch) or a vaginal sponge permeated with a spermicide. The vaginal sponge is less effective than other devices but can be used for 24 hours. Spermicides, which—as the name suggests—kill sperm, also help prevent sperm from getting past the barrier device, improving the effectiveness of such devices to…
Read More
…condom (vaginal pouch) or a vaginal sponge permeated with a spermicide. The vaginal sponge is less effective than other devices but can be used for 24 hours. Spermicides, which—as the name suggests—kill sperm, also help prevent sperm from getting past the barrier device, improving the effectiveness of such devices to…
Read More