Spermicidal lubricants in bottle form are no longer available. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) released a study in August, 2000 suggesting that the use of spermicides (aka: nonoxynol-9 or N-9) can cause the skin to dry and crack. The cracked skin creates portals for HIV, diseases and infections to enter. As a precaution, the lubrication companies stopped manufacturing their products with nonoxynol-9.
You can still purchase condoms with the spermicidal lubricant but studies show condoms lubricated with spermicides are no more effective than other lubricated condoms when used properly.
Avoid the risk…don't use condoms lubricated with spermicide. In fact, there are grassroots efforts to discontinue these condoms. Visit: www.stopn9condoms.com
Some companies have voluntarily stopped using N-9, such as Durex and Mayer Labs (Kimono, FC Female Condom).
Editorial Note from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
Nonoxynol-9 Spermicide Contraception Use
"The 2002 STD treatment guidelines state that condoms lubricated with spermicides are no more effective than other lubricated condoms in protecting against the transmission of HIV infection and other STDs."
"In the future, purchase of condoms lubricated with N-9 is not recommended because of their increased cost, shorter shelf life, association with urinary tract infections in young women, and lack of apparent benefit compared with other lubricated condoms."
When is Spermicide recommended?
Spermicidal gel or foam is used in conjunction with diaphragms; only diaphragms COMBINED WITH the use of spermicide are approved as contraceptives.
Note: Diaphragms used with spermicide only prevent pregnancy…not STDs or STIs.
