Nonoxynol-9 in lubricated condoms. Results of a study in female prostitutes
Ward, H.; De La Court, A.; Kitchen, V.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases 23(5): 413-414
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0148-5717 PMID: 8885074 DOI: 10.1097/00007435-199609000-00012Document Number: 305766
It remains unclear whether the intravaginal application of nonoxynol-9 (N-9) safely prevents the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) during sexual intercourse. Some studies have suggested a protective effect, while others a potential adverse effect created through the inflammation and ulceration of the genital tract caused by N-9. N-9 is commonly found in the lubricating agents used on condoms. However, the dose in each condom is small relative to pessaries or spermicidal gels. 70 female prostitutes participated in a study to assess the tolerability of different levels of N-9 in condom lubricants. Women were excluded from participation if they had a STD, vaginal candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis, were pregnant, or were using intravaginal spermicides for contraception. Participants were asked to use the trial condoms for all vaginal intercourse for a 2-week period and to avoid using any other spermicidal preparation. 1636 identical condoms were used during the study, either lubricated with polyethyleneglycol, polyethyleneglycol with 2% N-9, or polyethyleneglycol with 4% N-9. No association was found between the dose of N-9 and reported symptoms or signs of genital tract inflammation, although an increased dose of N-9 was associated with increased numbers of polymorphonuclear leukocytes on a vaginal wall smear. Future studies of the effects of low-dose N-9 on the female genital tract require highly controlled exposures together with colposcopy with or without vaginal biopsy for confirmation.