Dear madj1,

No. Don't rely on douching or using spermicide as emergency contraception. Spermicide foam, cream, jelly, film, and suppositories are inserted deep into the vagina shortly before intercourse. The chemical spermicide that they contain immobilizes sperm — preventing it from joining with an egg. Used alone, they are among the least reliable of methods available and are not a reliable form of emergency contraception.

Be aware that using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

A woman who is concerned about unintended pregnancy may want to consider emergency contraception (EC). EC can reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception can reduce the risk of pregnancy if started within 120 hours of unprotected vaginal intercourse. The sooner EC is taken, the better. It works best when started within 72 hours — during this time it can reduce the risk of pregnancy from 75 to 89 percent.

If you have had unprotected sex within the last 120 hours (five days), and need an appointment to receive EC, please call 1-800-230-PLAN for a Planned Parenthood center nearest you.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.