The sponge is a round piece of white plastic foam with a little dimple on one side and a nylon loop across the top that looks like shoelace material. It’s pretty small—just two inches across—and is inserted into the vagina before have sex. The sponge works in two ways: It blocks the cervix to keep sperm from getting into the uterus, and it continuously releases spermicide.
No hormones, no prescription, and can be inserted up to 24 hours before sex. Just remember, the sponge does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
The sponge isn’t the most effective method—especially if you’ve already had a kid.
86%
82%
Usually no side effects, but you could experience some irritation.
Have to put it in every time you have sex (but could be done hours ahead of time).
Available online now and should be appearing in stores soon. Find your local health center here.