A spermicide is a substance that kills sperm. Spermicides are available as jelly, foam, cream, suppositories, and film. The active ingredient of most spermicides is a chemical called nonoxynol-9. Most spermicides come with an applicator. The applicator is filled with spermicide and inserted into the vagina right before…
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that is usually produced during pregnancy. But some types of cancer can also cause high levels of hCG. The amount of hCG may be measured in blood or urine to see if a woman is pregnant. The test also may be done as part of a screening test for birth defects. High levels of…
A tubal ligation (“having your tubes tied”) is a type of surgery for women that permanently prevents pregnancy (sterilization). During a tubal ligation, the fallopian tubes are closed or removed to prevent fertilization; this blocks the sperms’ path to the egg. The fallopian tubes can be cut, clamped closed, or tied…
The cervical cap is a barrier method of birth control. A cervical cap, which is made of rubber, fits tightly over the opening to the uterus (the cervix). It is used with a spermicide. You can insert the cap ahead of time or just before sex. To work best, the cap should be left in place for 6 hours after sex. Do not…
Tubal ligation , often referred to as “having your tubes tied,” is a surgical procedure in which a woman’s fallopian tubes are blocked, tied, or cut. Tubal implants , such as Essure, are small metal springs that are placed in each fallopian tube in a nonsurgical procedure (no cutting is involved). Over time, scar tissue…