WHO: Spermicide May Increase Risk of Infection

LONDON - Rather than protect against sexually transmitted disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) is reporting spermicides suing nonoxynol-9 may actually increase the risk of infection.

The harsh chemical reportedly causes the epithelium to slough, leaving the area open to infection. WHO officials are suggesting women who have multiple acts of daily intercourse should instead use a different method of contraception. However, they also note that using the spermicide is better than using nothing.

Additionally, the report suggests that condoms containing the spermicide are no more efficient at preventing pregnancy than others.

Information from www.reuters.com