Comparative trial of the contraceptive sponge and diaphragm. A preliminary report

We evaluated the results from an ongoing comparative trial of the VLI contraceptive sponge and the diaphragm used with a spermicide. Among women who were not using vaginal contraceptives when enrolled in the study, the cumulative 12-month pregnancy rates were similar for the two contraceptive methods. Among women who were using vaginal contraceptives (principally diaphragms) when they were enrolled in the study, the group of women assigned to the diaphragm, as might be expected, had a significantly lower pregnancy rate. Rates of side effects and acceptability appeared to be similar for sponge and diaphragm users.