Longevity of Ortho Creme and Gynol II in the contraceptive diaphragm

A literature review yielded no scientific basis for the currently accepted recommendations on the length of time spermicides used with diaphragms continue to kill sperm. Twelve volunteers provided 68 spermicide samples representing 6, 12, 18, and 24 hours of in vivo insertion in a contraceptive diaphragm using Ortho Creme, Gynol II, and vehicle controls. Testing for continued spermicidal effect was performed in the laboratory using quality semen from 2 donors and employing the Multiple Exposure Photography system of semen analysis. Results showed effective spermicidal action after 12 hours of insertion, mixed effectiveness after 18 hours, and poor effectiveness after 24 hours with both products, with Ortho Creme being more effective in the longer insertions. Placebo jelly enhanced sperm activity while placebo creme had a moderate inhibitory effect. Recommendations for further study are made.