title: [Real and false risks of local contraception: spermicides and the diaphragm].
abstract: A critical analysis of recent publications about spermicides and their side-effects has been made. The modern spermicides consist principally of nonoxynol-9 and benzalkonium chloride. The products are harmless and efficient when used correctly at each sexual intercourse. Experiments on rabbits and rats show that nonoxynol-9 is absorbed through the vaginal wall. Benzalkonium chloride is not absorbed, as shown by tests in women and rats. The diaphragm as a method of contraception does present several psychosomatic drawbacks. It appears harmless; allergy to rubber or the septic shock syndrome are extremely rare.
authors.forename: M M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Zufferey
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001548:Benzalkonium Compounds / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003274:Contraceptive Devices, Female / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017137:Nonoxynol; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011817:Rabbits; D051381:Rats; D012306:Risk; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000494:pharmacology; D014621:Vagina / Q000187:drug effects
chemical_list: D001548:Benzalkonium Compounds; D013089:Spermatocidal Agents; D017137:Nonoxynol; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols
vernacular_title: Risques vrais et faux de la contraception locale: spermicides, diaphragme.