THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0 height="100%"><tr> <td valign="top" width=200 BGCOLOR="#DDDDDD" TEXT="#080000" background="18402c00ebgkap.jpg"> <div> <I>"Birth Control Knowledge for a</I></div> <div> <I>Healthier World"</I></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="0" WIDTH="95" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 46 WIDTH="91"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="46" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="91" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> <I>GHO</I></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#introduction" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>INTRODUCTION</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#sponge" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#pharmatex_sponge" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>PHARMATEX SPONGE</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="test__instructions_pharmatex_instr_.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TEST INSTRUCTIONS"><U><B>PHARMATEX INSTRUCTIONS</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#protectaid_sponge" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>PROTECTAID SPONGE</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#to_order_the_protectaid" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>ORDER PROTECTAID</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="test__instructions_protectaid.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TEST INSTRUCTIONS"><U><B>PROTECTAID INSTRUCTIONS</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#today_sponge" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>TODAY SPONGE</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="sponge_m.htm#avert_sponge" TARGET="TRLX_Middle" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B>AVERT SPONGE</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="GLOBAL HEALTH OPTIONS"><U><B>HOME</B></U></A></div> </td> <td valign="top" BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#333399" FACE="Algerian" ><I><B>GLOBAL  HEALTH  OPTIONS</B></I></FONT>     |   <A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="GLOBAL HEALTH OPTIONS"><U> HOME</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="persona.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="PERSONA BIRTH CONTROL"><U>PERSONA BIRTH CONTROL</U></A>   |   <A HREF="persona19.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="PERSONA BIRTH CONTROL Part II"><U>PERSONA BIRTH CONTROL- Part II</U></A>   |   <B>THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE</B>   |   <A HREF="id55.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="SURVEY"><U>SURVEY</U></A>   |   <A HREF="menstrual_period.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR PERIOD"><U>TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR PERIOD</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id50.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="INFORMED SEX"><U>INFORMED SEX</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id39.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION"><U>EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id41.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION Part II"><U>EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION - Part II</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id42.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="MEDICAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY"><U>MEDICAL TERMINATION OF PREGNANCY</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id32.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="MORE BIRTH CONTROL OPTIONS"><U>MORE BIRTH CONTROL OPTIONS</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id30.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="BIRTH CONTROL AND UNINTENDED PREGNANCIES"><U>BIRTH CONTROL AND UNINTENDED PREGNANCIES</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id54.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="LINKS"><U>LINKS</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id28.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS"><U>SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id18.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="HEALTH TIPS"><U>HEALTH TIPS</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id17.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="ABOUT"><U>ABOUT</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id19.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="CONTACT"><U>CONTACT</U></A></div> <div> <B><U>THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE</U></B></div> <bR> <div> <B>INTRODUCTION</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="introduction"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <I>Sponge</I> is part of the Barrier group of birth control methods.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some of the other Barrier methods are: <A NAME="barrier"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="363" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 41 WIDTH="166"><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Unisex, Female, Male</I><I> </I><I>Condoms</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="186"><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Cervical Cap</I></div> <div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">FemCap</I></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="166"><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Diaphragms</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="186"><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Ov</I><I>è</I><I>s Cap </I></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dumas, Vimule</I></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Lea contraceptive</I><I>       </I></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Barrier methods prevent<I> </I>Fertilization<I>, </I>which is<I> </I>the union of the egg and sperm. They provide a<I> </I>mechanical barrier between the sperm and the egg. </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Most barrier methods, like the<I> Sponge</I>, are used together with a spermicide.  A <I>Spermicide</I> is a chemical substance which kills sperm.  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">There is one important thing you should know about <I>Barrier </I>methods and<I> </I><I>Spermicides. </I>They are the <I>only</I><I> </I><I>methods</I> of birth control that are able to <I>offer</I><I> you </I><I>some</I><I> </I><I>protection against Sexually Transmitted</I><I> </I><I>Diseases</I> (STDs).  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Of course, only <I>Continuous Abstinence</I> can fully protect you from STDs. <I>C</I><I>ontinuous Abstinence</I> means no sexual activity at all.</div> <bR> <div> <B>THE  BIRTH CONTROL  SPONGE</B><B> <A NAME="sponge"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The<I> S</I><I>ponge</I> is a little disc, made of soft polyurethane foam that comes pre-treated with spermicide. </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The foam has a consistency similar to that of vaginal tissue. Because of this, neither you nor your partner will be able to feel the sponge during sex.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">One size fits all, so no fitting is required. This means the sponge is available without a doctor's prescription, and you can buy it over-the-counter.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">All <I>Sponge</I> brands are disposable--you use a sponge only once and then throw it away.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <I>Sponge </I>starts to work immediately after it's<I> </I>inserted and lasts for many hours--12 to 24 hours, depending on which brand you use. You are protected for this entire period of time, regardless of how many times your partner ejaculates.  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Sponge prevents a pregnancy by:</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="375" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">blocking the passage of sperm</I> into the cervix</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="369"><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">trapping sperm</I><I> </I></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <I><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">releasing spermicide </I>(a sperm-killing substance)</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">To insert the sponge: you introduced it deep into the vagina, so that it <I>fits over the cervix</I>. You can insert it up to 22 hours before intercourse.  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">To remove the sponge: you pull on foam slots, or grasp it between two fingers (depending on the brand used) and gently withdraw it from the vagina. </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">You must leave the sponge in place at least 2 to 6 hours after the last time you have sex, to allow time for the sperm to be killed. However, don't leave it in beyond the maximum recommended time.  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">There is no need to re-apply spermicide, regardless of how many times your partner ejaculates.  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The overall 1st year failure<I> </I>rate and the percentage of women who continue to use the sponge after 1 year are: </div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="497" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 60 WIDTH="198"><div> <I><B>Sponge</B></I><I>*</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <I><B>1st Year Failure Rate</B></I></div> <div>                       </div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>Perfect Use</B>  <B>Typical Use             </B></div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="95"><div> <I><B>1 Year Continuation Rate</B></I></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 37 ><NOBR><div> <B>Nulliparous women</B></div> <div> (women who have not given birth)</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="178"><div> <B>9%           20%</B></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="95"><div> <B>56%</B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 37 ><NOBR><div> <B>Parous women</B></div> <div> (women who have given birth)</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="178"><div> <B>20%</B>          <B>40%</B></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="95"><div> <B>42%</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> *The specific failure rates are listed under the individual Sponge brands.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">If your partner uses a condom, the sponge's ability to protect you against an unintended pregnancy is greatly improved.</div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">PROTECTION AGAINST SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDs)</B><B>:</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="503" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 99 WIDTH="497"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The sponge is able to offer you some protection against STDs because of the spermicide it contains. Recall that a spermicide is a chemical substance which kills or inactivates sperm. Some spermicides are also able to kill or inactivate the organisms that cause STDs.</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">There are 3 spermicides used in birth control sponges:</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="224" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="218"><div> <B>Nonoxynol 9</B> (N-9)</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <B>Benzalkonium chloride</B> (BZK)</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="218"><div> <B>Sodium cholate</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <B>N-9</B> </div> <div> Offers <I>no protection against most STDs</I> and, in higher concentrations, <I>increases the risk</I> of HIV transmission. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS.</div> <bR> <div> <B>BZK</B> </div> <div> Has <I>microbicidal activity--</I>it kills the organisms that cause STDs, including HIV.  BZK is widely used as a disinfectant. Studies have also shown that it tends to cause <I>less vaginal irritation</I> than N-9.<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Trebuchet MS" >(1)</FONT></div> <div>  </div> <bR> <div> <B>Sodium cholate</B> </div> <div> Is <I>antiviral</I>.</div> <div>  </div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="456" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 79 WIDTH="450"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Since a Spermicide is a chemical substance, it can cause irritation to the lining of the vagina. This is important, because the organisms that cause STDs can enter your body through an irritated vaginal lining. </div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 99 WIDTH="450"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">For example, studies have shown that the spermicide <B>N-9</B>, used frequently and for long periods of time, causes v<I>aginal irritation</I>. This is the reason why, if you use products that have a high dose of N-9, you<I> have an increased risk</I> <I>of HIV infection</I>.</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  </div> <div> Because of this evidence, the latest <I>recommendations</I> regarding the use of <I>spermicides containing </I><B>N-9</B> are:</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="517" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 41 WIDTH="511"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Wing0a73007700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">products containing N-9 <I>should not be used at all to protect against STDs</I>, including HIV</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 60 WIDTH="511"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Wing0a73007700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">if you are considering using products containing N-9 you should be<I> aware of, and should carefully consider</I> the <I>proven risk of using N-9</I> vs. any potential birth control benefits</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Advantages</B> of using the Sponge:</div> <div>  </div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="378" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 ><NOBR><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">no fitting required</div> </NOBR></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP><NOBR><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">no prescription needed</div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 136 WIDTH="172"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">easy to insert and remove</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">no wide-spread body effects</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">you can use it if you've recently given birth</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="195"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">woman- controlled method</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">you can leave it in for up to 24 hrs, so it doesn't interfere with spontaneity</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 60 WIDTH="172"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">neither you, nor your partner can feel the sponge</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="195"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">possible protection against STDs</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 41 WIDTH="172"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">you only use it when you needed</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="195"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">immediate return to fertility</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 41 WIDTH="172"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">no need to add spermicide</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="195"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">you can use it if you are breastfeeding </div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Disadvantages</B> of using the Sponge:</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="437" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 79 WIDTH="215"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">can not be used if you have an abnormal Pap, genital lesions or infections</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="211"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">some brands can not be used immediately after childbirth, miscarriage or termination</div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 175 WIDTH="215"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">higher failure rate vs. other methods</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">can not be used during your menstrual period</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">small risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome(TSS)**</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">some brands may be messy because they have a lot of spermicide</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="211"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">can not use if allergic to spermicide</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">must feel comfortable with touching genital area</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">for brands containing N-9, increased vaginal irritation, which is a risk factor for HIV infection </div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="215"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="22" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="215" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="211"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="22" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="211" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> **<B>TSS</B> - a small risk of TSS is associated with the use of all Barrier methods, as well as with no birth control use. TSS is a generalized body infection, which occurs in women, men and children and which may be potentially fatal.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">There are <I>4 brands</I><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#9900FF" FACE="Trebuchet MS" ><B> </B></FONT>of Sponges, but only the <I>first </I><I>2</I> are currently available:</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="139" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 24 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="#pharmatex_sponge" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d011800000000.png" HEIGHT="19" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">PHARMATEX</B></U></A></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 24 ><NOBR><div> <A HREF="#protectaid_sponge" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d011800000000.png" HEIGHT="19" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">PROTECTAID</B></U></A> </div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 24 WIDTH="133"><div> <A HREF="#today_sponge" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d011800000000.png" HEIGHT="19" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">TODAY</B></U></A><A HREF="#today_sponge" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U> </U></A></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 39 WIDTH="133"><div> <A HREF="#avert_sponge" TITLE="THE BIRTH CONTROL SPONGE"><U><B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d011800000000.png" HEIGHT="19" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">AVERT</B></U></A></div> <div>  <A NAME="today"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div>  <A NAME="pharmatex"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <B>PHARMATEX  Sponge</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="pharmatex_sponge"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="522" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 193 WIDTH="278"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">a foam cylinder impregnated with<B> </B><I>60 mg</I> of the spermicide<B> </B><I>Benzalkonium chloride</I><I> (</I><I>BZK</I><I>)</I></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be inserted up to <I>22 hours before sex</I></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do not remove it for at least <B>2 hours</B> after the last act of vaginal intercourse</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do<I> </I>not leave<I> </I>sponge in<I> for more than 24 hours</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="225"><div> <U><IMG SRC="204d2500.jpg" border=0 width="210" height="80" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The 1st year <B>Failure rate</B> is <B>19%</B> with typical use.*</div> <bR> <div> *regardless if you had, or have not had children</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <B>Pharmatex</B> sponge was introduced in 1984, in Europe. It is not yet FDA approved in the U.S.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Pharmatex is <I>currently available</I>.</div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">STDs Protection: </B>Yes, partial protection.<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Trebuchet MS" >(1)</FONT></div> <bR> <div> N.B. Until large-scale clinical studies are available, this sponge<I> should not be relied upon to offer protection against STDs, especially HIV.</I></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="513" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 41 WIDTH="263"><div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">             Advantages</B></div> <bR> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="239"><div> <B>            Disadvantages</B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 191 WIDTH="263"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">does not require water before insertion</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">shorter exposure to </div> <div> spermicide</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">does not contain N-9</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be used while </div> <div> breastfeeding</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be used after a recent vaginal delivery, or termination</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="239"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">some users may be sensitive to the spermicide</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <I>Because Pharmatex </I><I><B>contains BZK</B></I><I>, and based on the available literature Pharmatex is </I><I><B>recommended</B></I><I> as a birth control method.</I></div> <div>  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Read the <A HREF="test__instructions_pharmatex_instr_.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TEST INSTRUCTIONS"><U><B>Instructions for Use</B></U></A>.<B> </B></div> <bR> <bR> <div> References:</div> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >1. </FONT>Mauck CK; Baker JM; Barr SP; Abercrombie TJ; Archer DF<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >.</FONT><I>A phase I comparative study of contraceptive vaginal films containing benzalkonium chloride and nonoxynol-9. Postcoital testing and colposcopy.</I>Contraception 1997 Aug;56(2):89-96 </div> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="protectaid_sponge"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <B>PROTECTAID  Sponge</B></div> <bR> <div> <B><U> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="556" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 250 WIDTH="277"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">a foam disc impregnated with <I>5,000 mg</I> of the <I>spermicidal</I>  <B>F-5 gel </B></div> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">F-5 gel</B><B> </B>contains <I>6.25 mg</I> of Nonoxynol 9 (N-9), <I>6.25 mg</I> of Benzalkonium chloride (BZK) and <I>25 mg</I> of Sodium cholate</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be inserted<I> </I>up to <I>6 hours</I>, but no less than <I>15 minutes, </I><I>before</I> <I>sex</I></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do not remove it for at least <B>6 hours</B> after the last act of vaginal intercourse </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do not<I> </I>leave<I> </I>sponge in<I> for more than 12 hours</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="260"><div> <U><IMG SRC="2427a650.png" border=0 width="122" height="101" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"><IMG SRC="24469630.png" border=0 width="105" height="99" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></U></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The 1st year <B>Failure rate</B> is <B>23%</B> with typical use.*</div> <bR> <div> *regardless if you had, or have not had children</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></U></B></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <B>Protectaid</B> sponge was introduced in 1996, in Canada, and in 2000 in Europe. It is not yet FDA approved in the U.S.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Protectaid is <I>currently</I><I> available</I>.</div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">STDs Protection</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >: </FONT>Possibly, partial protection.</div> <bR> <div> N.B. Until large-scale clinical studies<I> </I>are available<I>, </I>this sponge <I>should not be relied upon to offer protection against STDs, especially HIV.</I></div> <bR> <div> <I>- Laboratory studies</I> show that the Protectaid sponge <I>inactivates</I> HIV, Chlamydia and Trichomonas.<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Trebuchet MS" >(2)</FONT></div> <div> - In <I>human studies</I>, the <B>F-5 gel</B>  did not cause <I>vaginal</I> <I>irritation</I> up to 12 hours after insertion. The manufacturer also states that the F-5 gel can help prevent irritation caused by intercourse (because the gel forms a protective coating on the wall of the vagina).</div> <div> - Since the F-5 gel produces <I>less vaginal irritation</I> and because it contains a <I>low concentration of N-9</I>, it is possible that using the Protectaid sponge would <I>not be associated</I> with the harmful effects observed with the use of N-9 alone, in higher concentrations. Also, because this gel contains the <I>microbicidal BZK</I>, and because <I>no increase in STDs</I>, including HIV, was <I>noted in clinical studies</I>, it is possible that the Protectaid sponge offers <I>partial STD protection</I>.</div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="513" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="263"><div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">             Advantages</B></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="239"><div> <B>            Disadvantages</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="439" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 174 WIDTH="227"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">does not require water before insertion</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">lower spermicidal concentration reduces vaginal irritation, a risk factor for HIV infection</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be able to prevent irritation caused by sexual intercourse</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="201"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may only be left in place for 12 hours</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">not as extensively studied as the Today sponge</div> <bR> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <I>Because Protectaid </I><I><B>contains BZK</B></I><I> and a </I><I><B>low dose of N-9</B></I><I>, and based on the available literature Protectaid is </I><I><B>recommended</B></I><I> as a birth control method.</I></div> <div> <I> <A NAME="to_order_the_protectaid"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></I></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">If you wish to order* the <B>Protectaid</B><B> sponge</B>:</div> <div>   </div> <div> <A HREF="http://www.sunrisemeds.com/products.php?category=16&REF=google_protectaid" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.sunrisemeds.com/products.php?"><U>Sunrise Meds</U></A> ($8.95/box of 4)</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="http://www.blueskypharmacy.com/products/sponges/116/&SITEREF=google_ProtectaidBulk" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.blueskypharmacy.com/products/"><U>Blue Sky Pharmacy</U></A> ($9.95/box of 4)</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="http://www.birthcontrol.com/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BCCA&Product_Code=PROTSPON" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.birthcontrol.com/merchant.mv?"><U>Birthcontrol.com </U></A>($12/box of 4)</div> <bR> <div> <A HREF="http://www.canadapharmacy.com/cart/index.cfm?fuseaction=product_detail&producturlname=Protectaid®.Contraceptive.Sponge.&productid=2366" TARGET="_top" TITLE="http://www.canadapharmacy.com/cart/index"><U>Canada Pharmacy</U></A> ($12.99/box of 4)</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Trebuchet MS" >*</FONT>These links are provided strictly as a courtesy to our visitors. We have not test-purchased any products from these sites, and are unable to offer an informed recommendation about their services. Please do your own evaluation before you decide to buy.</div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Read the <A HREF="test__instructions_protectaid.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TEST INSTRUCTIONS"><U><B>Instructions for Us</B></U></A><A HREF="test__instructions_protectaid.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="TEST INSTRUCTIONS"><U><B>e</B></U></A> <A NAME="__1_1"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <bR> <bR> <div> References:</div> <div> 1. Mauck CK; Baker JM; Barr SP; Abercrombie TJ; Archer DF<FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >.</FONT><I>A phase I comparative study of contraceptive vaginal films containing benzalkonium chloride and nonoxynol-9. Postcoital testing and colposcopy.</I>Contraception 1997 Aug;56(2):89-96 </div> <div> 2. Psychoyos, A. <I>Protectaid</I><I>®</I><I>: a new vaginal contraceptive sponge with anti-STD properties.</I><I> </I>In: Mauck C, et al., ed.<I>Barrier Contraceptives: Current Status and Future Prospects</I> New York: Wiley-Liss (1994), pp. 265-270</div> <div> 3. Creatsas G, et al. <I>A multinational evaluation of the efficacy and acceptability of the Protectaid contraceptive sponge.</I>Eur J Contracept Reprod Health Care 2001 Sep;6(3):172-82<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > </FONT></div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>TODAY  Sponge</B><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" > <A NAME="today_sponge"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></FONT></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="571" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 301 WIDTH="306"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">a foam disc impregnated with <I>1,000 mg</I> of the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 (N-9)</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">you have to <I>wet it with water before insertion</I>  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be inserted <I>up to 24 hours </I>before sex</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do not remove it for at least<B> 6 hours</B> after the last act of vaginal intercourse  </div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">do not leave<I> </I>sponge in<I> for more than 30 hours</I></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="246"><div> <IMG SRC="16cd87e0.png" border=0 width="216" height="126" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The estimated 1st year <B>Failure rate </B>is <B>17% </B>with typical use: </div> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">14%</B> for <I>nulliparous</I> women </div> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">27%</B> for <I>parous</I> women  </div> <bR> <div> * According to the manufacturer, failure rates, with perfect use are<B> 9 % </B>for <I>nulliparous </I>women, and <B>11 % </B>for <I>parous</I> ones.</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <B>Today</B> sponge was introduced in 1983, in the U.S. but it was taken off the market* in 1995.  It is also approved for use in Canada.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Today is <I>currently not available</I> on the market. It is <I>expected to return, </I>possibly by the end of 2003 in the U.S.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">As of March 1, 2003 it should be available in Canada.  </div> <bR> <div> *The removal was prompted by issues unrelated to the sponge itself (the cost of needed upgrades at the production factory prompted the manufacturer to discontinue production). The current manufacturer is in the process of obtaining FDA certification for the production facility.  The Today Sponge itself has been, and remains, FDA approved in the U.S.</div> <div> To read the 1995 FDA statement about the removal: <a href="#" onClick="MyWindow2=window.open('http://www.cpb.ouhsc.edu/fda/ans/bull1110.html','MyWindow','toolbar=yes,location=yes,directories=yes,status=yes,menubar=yes,scrollbars=yes,resizable=yes,width=600,height=300'); return false;">FDA Report</a>  </div> <div>   </div> <bR> <div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">STDs Protection</B>: None</div> <bR> <div> In addition, <B>N-9</B>, the spermicide in the Today sponge, has been shown to increase the risk of HIV transmission.</div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="2" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="432" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 22 WIDTH="203"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"> <B>Advantages</B></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="218"><div> <B>      Disadvantages</B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 174 WIDTH="203"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">may be left in place for 30 hours</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">extensively studied </div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="218"><div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">requires water before insertion</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">sulfa allergy may preclude use</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c002d00f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">contains a high concentration of N-9 (increased risk of  vaginal irritation, a risk factor for HIV infection)</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <I>Because </I><I>the </I><I>Today </I><I>sponge </I><I>contains a</I><I> </I><I><B>high concentration of N-9 </B></I><I>(</I><I>1,000 mg), and based on the documented </I><I><B>lack of STDs protection</B></I><I> coupled with the </I><I><B>increased HIV transmission risk</B></I><I> associated with the use of N-9, we </I><I><B>can not recommend </B></I><I>this type of sponge for use as birth control.</I></div> <bR> <div> If you are interested in further readings on the topic of <I>N-9 and the lack of STDs protection</I>:</div> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Trebuchet MS" >- </FONT> <a href="#" onClick="MyWindow3=window.open('http://www.who.int/inf/en/pr-2002-55.html','MyWindow','toolbar=yes,location=yes,directories=yes,status=yes,menubar=yes,scrollbars=yes,resizable=yes,width=600,height=300'); return false;">WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION Report</a>  </div> <bR> <div> - <FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#333399" FACE="Trebuchet MS" > <a href="#" onClick="MyWindow4=window.open('http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/287/9/1171','MyWindow','toolbar=yes,location=yes,directories=yes,status=yes,menubar=yes,scrollbars=yes,resizable=yes,width=600,height=300'); return false;">It's Time to Move On</a>  </FONT>(registration required)</div> <bR> <div> - Van Damme L. (2000). <I>Advances in topical microbicides.</I> 13th International AIDS Conference, July 9-14, 2000, Durban, South Africa (Abstract WeOr62). </div> <bR> <div> - Hoffman T, Taha TE, Martinson F et al. <I>Adverse health event occurring during an N-9 Gel pilot study: Malawi.</I> 13th International AIDS Conference, July 9-14, 2000, Durban, South Africa (Abstract no. TuPpC1171)</div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">If you do decide to use the Today sponge, the  <a href="#" onClick="MyWindow5=window.open('http://www.todaysponge.com/','MyWindow','toolbar=yes,location=yes,directories=yes,status=yes,menubar=yes,scrollbars=yes,resizable=yes,width=600,height=300'); return false;">manufacturer</a>  has a listing of on-line sites and stores where you can purchase it.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The price for a 12-pack of the Today sponge is ~USD $36.00.</div> <bR> <bR> <div>  <A NAME="avert_sponge"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></div> <div> <B>AVERT  Sponge</B></div> <bR> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The <B>Avert</B> sponge is currently being developed.</div> <div> <IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f000000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">It has a much lower concentration of spermicide (<I>100 mg</I><B> </B>of<B> N-9</B>). Also, there is no need to wet it before insertion.</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> General References</div> <bR> <div> 1. APGO Contraception Monograph, February 1999.</div> <div> 2. Rosenberg MJ, Feldblum PJ, Rojanapithayakorn W, et al. The contraceptive sponge's protection against <I>Chlamydia trachomatis </I>and <I>Neisseria gonorrhoeae</I>. <I>Sex Transm Dis </I>1987;14(3):147-52.</div> <div> 3. Kreiss J, Ngugi E, Holmes K, et al. Efficacy of nonoxynol 9 contraceptive sponge use in preventing heterosexual acquisition of HIV in Nairobi prostitutes. <I>JAMA</I> 1992;268(4):477-82.</div> <div> 4. Family Health International; Trussell. </div> <div> 5. Colin P, Creatsas G, Serfaty D, et al. Multinational, open phase II study of the efficacy, safety and acceptability of the Protectaid contraceptive sponge. Annual meeting of the Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of Canada, Ottawa, Canada, June 1999.</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> Copyright 2001-2004 GHO.  All rights reserved.</div> </td> </tr></table></body>