Contraceptive globules (vaginal) is one of the local methods of chemical contraception. Contraceptive globules are applied several minutes before sexual intercourse. They are not very effective methods of protection against pregnancy and should be used in addition to, rather than as a standalone, contraceptive. Nevertheless, the great advantage of vaginal globules is their price and availability - they are dispensed without a prescription. Find out more about this contraceptive method.

Contraceptive globulesarevaginal spermicides- their main active ingredient is spermicides. Condoms, gels, foams and tampons also contain them. Spermidides are, for example, onoxynol 9, nonoxinol, octoxynol, menfegol and benzalkonium chloride. Their task is to destroy and immobilize sperm by damaging their cell membrane.

Vaginal contraceptive globulesare dispensedover the counterand are relatively cheap. However, this is not the best method of protection against pregnancy as contraceptive pessaries have a relatively low level of effectiveness.

Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive pessaries.

What is the action of the contraceptive globules?

Contraceptive globules, thanks to the immobilization and destruction of sperm in the vagina, prevent them from reaching the cervix and possible fertilization. Contraceptive globules are used intravaginally a dozen or so minutes before intercourse, where they dissolve and, unfortunately, usually leak from there.

To prevent stains on the underwear, wear panty liners. In order to increase the contraceptive effectiveness, the woman should remain lying after the injection of the vaginal globule in order to prevent excessive leakage of the substance from the vagina.

How to use the contraceptive pills?

The contraceptive globule should be inserted deep into the vagina 10-15 minutes before sexual intercourse. The spermicidal substance it contains works for about 1 hour. If you do not ejaculate during sex within an hour, use another pessary.

Before each intercourse, a new contraceptive pessary should be inserted into the vagina. The dissolved substance will leak for up to 6-8 hours, so it's good to have panty liners on hand. Whatmoreover, do not irrigate and wash yourself deeply until then.

What is the contraceptive effectiveness of the globules?

To determine the effectiveness of a given contraceptive method, use the so-called Pearl Index. It shows the number of fertilization in 100 couples who have chosen a given method of contraception. The lower the index, the more effective the chosen method is. The vaginal contraceptive globules scored 10-30 points on this scale. For comparison, hormonal contraceptives on the Pearl scale score from 0.2 to 0.9 points.

See also: Contraception methods - natural, chemical, mechanical and hormonal

As you can see, contraceptive globules are not a good method of contraception. It is worth using them as a last resort (e.g. when you are allergic to using other agents) or as additional protection, for example when using a condom.

What is the price of contraceptive pills and where can they be bought?

The price of contraceptive globules most often ranges between PLN 15-30. The package usually contains 6 tablets.

Contraceptive globules are available without a prescription and can be obtained at any pharmacy. Their easy availability and relatively low price make them quite popular, but it must be remembered that in order to properly protect against pregnancy, the globules should be combined with other mechanical means, e.g. a condom.

Find out more about other methods of contraception:

  • Femidom, or a female condom - how does it work?
  • Neck cap and diaphragm - action and effectiveness
  • Vaginal contraceptive sponge - how to use?
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Names of contraceptive pessaries available on the Polish market

The most commonly used type of contraceptive globules is Patentex-Oval N, which has nonoxynol 9 as the active ingredient. Their cost ranges from about PLN 15 to PLN 25.

Other names for the contraceptive globules are:

  • Kolpotex-230
  • Kolpotex-Oval
  • Preventex

In all cases, the active ingredient is nonoxinol.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive globules?

Easy availability, over-the-counter sale and the lack of influence of contraceptive pills on the endocrine system and female fertility are probably the greatest advantages of this method of contraception. Still, globules are not a good protection against pregnancy. Moreover, it is a very uncomfortable form of contraception. During intercourse, the globule foams and can hurt both women and men because it is not always able to dissolve completely. Makes it difficultalso oral sex, and any spontaneity during sex is virtually impossible, because you have to remember to put the pessary in the vagina about 15 minutes before intercourse and wait until the substance dissolves when approaching.

With frequent use, the contraceptive globule may irritate the delicate intimate area, as it causes the loss of natural vaginal lubrication and disturbs its bacterial flora. This also contributes to an increased risk of infection.

The contraceptive globule will be a good choice for women who rarely have sexual intercourse, and the possible pregnancy will not be a big problem for them.

Important

Advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive globules - summary

Advantages:

  1. They are easily accessible.
  2. They are dispensed without a prescription.
  3. Can be combined with other contraceptives.
  4. They moisturize the inside of the vagina.
  5. They have an easy way to apply.
  6. They do not affect the hormonal balance.
  7. Does not affect fertility.

Cons:

  1. They have a low effectiveness.
  2. They foam during sexual intercourse.
  3. They pose a risk of irritation and itching of the vagina and penis.
  4. They cause trouble during oral sex.
  5. They have an uncomfortable practice (10-15 minutes before intercourse).
  6. They do not protect against HIV or any other sexually transmitted disease.

Category:

Pregnancy