Related Experiment Videos
The diaphragm with and without spermicide. A randomized, comparative efficacy trial
W Bounds1, J Guillebaud, R Dominik
1Margaret Pyke Centre, London, U.K.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Using a diaphragm with spermicide showed lower pregnancy rates compared to diaphragm-only use. This suggests spermicide enhances diaphragm contraceptive effectiveness, though more research is needed for statistical significance.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Contraception Research
- Clinical Efficacy Studies
Background:
- The diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception.
- The efficacy of spermicide used with a diaphragm has been debated.
- Assessing the added benefit of spermicide is crucial for contraceptive counseling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the contraceptive efficacy of diaphragm use with and without spermicide.
- To evaluate the relative effectiveness of diaphragm-only versus diaphragm-with-spermicide contraception.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 216 women over 12 months.
- Participants were assigned to diaphragm-only, diaphragm-with-spermicide, or spermicide-only groups.
- Accidental pregnancy was the primary outcome measure.
Main Results:
- Typical use 12-month failure rates were 28.6% (diaphragm-only) vs. 21.2% (diaphragm-with-spermicide).
- Consistent use 12-month failure rates were 19.3% (diaphragm-only) vs. 12.3% (diaphragm-with-spermicide).
Conclusions:
- Diaphragm use with spermicide demonstrated a trend towards improved contraceptive effectiveness.
- The study lacked statistical power to definitively prove spermicide's benefit.
- Clinical recommendations should continue to support diaphragm use with spermicide pending further evidence.