Use effectiveness of a spermicidal suppository containing benzalkonium chloride

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Unwanted pregnancies remain a significant public health concern.
• Effective and safe contraceptive methods are crucial for family planning.
• Benzalkonium chloride is a known spermicidal agent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a vaginal contraceptive ovule containing benzalkonium chloride.
• To assess the contraceptive performance using life-table analysis.
• To identify factors contributing to contraceptive failure.

Main Methods:

• A multicentric trial involving 653 women over 9,517 months.
• Use of a vaginal ovule with 18.9 mg benzalkonium chloride as the sole contraceptive method.
• Gynaecological and cytobacteriological examinations for side-effect evaluation.
• Life-table analysis (Tietze-Lewit) for outcome assessment.

Main Results:

• Net cumulative pregnancy rate at 12 months was 3.7%, and at 24 months was 3.7%.
• Contraceptive failure was primarily linked to user error or incorrect usage (69% of pregnancies).
• No significant gynaecological or cytological side-effects were observed.

Conclusions:

• The vaginal contraceptive ovule containing benzalkonium chloride is a safe and highly effective method for preventing pregnancy.
• Correct and consistent use according to instructions is essential for optimal contraceptive efficacy.
• The method demonstrates a favorable safety profile with no adverse gynaecological or cytological findings.