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. 1997 Spring;17(3):5-7.

N-9 contraceptive film and the risk of STDs

No authors listed
  • PMID: 12292395

N-9 contraceptive film and the risk of STDs

No authors listed. Netw Res Triangle Park N C. 1997 Spring.

Abstract

PIP: In a question-and-answer format, this article sets forth general information about nonoxynol-9, the findings of a two-year trial of nonoxynol-9 conducted among commercial sex workers in Cameroon, and the public health implications of recent clinical research. Although the US Food and Drug Administration granted approval in 1980 of nonoxynol-9 as a vaginal contraceptive method, concerns have been raised that frequent use of this spermicide or use in high concentrations tends to produce vaginal irritation and epithelial disruption, which may enhance transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV. In the Cameroon study, 1292 HIV-negative female prostitutes received either nonoxynol-9 film or a placebo film; in addition, they were provided with condoms. The study found that the low-dose nonoxynol-9 film did not increase the risk of STDs; however, in settings where a high percentage of sex acts were protected by condoms, the spermicide did not provide any additional protection against STDs. The study was unable to assess whether use of spermicidal film alone conferred any protection against STD transmission. These findings suggest that consistent use of latex condoms, with or without spermicides, remains the best strategy for STD prevention.

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