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Play Well: August 2015

By Sara Choate–

Q:I’m thinking about getting condoms with spermicidal lubricant.Are these better than the regular ones?

A:Spermicide, or nonoxynol-9, while helpful in killing sperm as a contraception method, is no longer recommended for use with barrier methods (i.e., male and female condoms) because it irritates the delicate skin cells of the vagina and rectum.As a result, it causes small lacerations, which dramatically increase the likelihood of STI transmission, including HIV.

Instead of using spermicide, I recommend getting a quality sexual lubricant and using it generously with your favorite condom.