A prospective study of the acceptability of Today vaginal contraceptive sponge among Malaysian women
Ismail, M.T.; Halim, A.J.; Arshat, H.
Malaysian Journal of Reproductive Health a Publication of the Reproductive Research Centre of the National Population and Family Development Board Malaysia 5(1): 17-21
1987
ISSN/ISBN: 0127-3213 PMID: 12269177 Document Number: 248803
In a 2 month study to test the viability of vaginal sponges for use among Malaysian women 50 cases were followed. Of the 50 cases 1 developed an allergic reaction, 49 participated in a 1-month checkup after which 13 stopped for various reasons not related to the use of the sponge. The other 36 completed the study in which there were few side effects and many of the women said sexual intercourse was less messy. The 50 subjects were 18-45 years of age, healthy with no vaginal infection, irritation, inflammation and pregnancy, and had to be sexually active. All but 1 of the cases had been pregnant before and the majority of the group had sexual intercourse twice a week. Only 3 cases had problems in the initial insertion and removal of the sponge. 2 cases reported non use at some time, but the majority retained the sponge from 6-24 hours. Of those who discontinued use, 3 migrated to other areas, 6 had husbands who did not like it, 1 had vaginal cramps, 1 unplanned pregnancy, and 1 had a planned pregnancy. Of the remaining 36 there where 4 who lacked confidence in the effectiveness of the sponge. The general conclusion of the study is that the sponge is an acceptable, safe, convenient, inexpensive, and does not cause discomfort to those using it. Its longterm use as a reliable contraceptive device should be verified.