G Creatsas, E Guerrero, E Guilbert, J Drouin, D Serfaty, L Lemieux, S Suissa, P Colin
Journal: The European journal of contraception & reproductive health care : the official journal of the European Society of Contraception 2002;6(3):172-82
PMID: 11763982
OBJECTIVE
The Protectaid sponge (Gefar Pharma, Switzerland) is a new feminine barrier contraceptive method containing three low-dose spermicidal agents. In order to evaluate its efficacy and safety profiles, an international, multicenter study has been conducted in four countries.
METHODS
Healthy, presumably fertile and sexually active women were enrolled in this study and were followed at 15 days, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Contraceptive efficacy was assessed by a pregnancy test, while safety was evaluated by performing gynecological examinations as well as reporting adverse events. The 'acceptability' of the sponge by the women was assessed through a standard questionnaire.
RESULTS
A total of 129 women were enrolled in the study, generating 1182 cycles of use of the sponge. The overall efficacy rate was 77%, with no significant influence of age or parity. Acceptability was high, with 85% of subjects being symptom- or problem-free while using the sponge. Finally, the safety profile was very good, with no clinically significant evidence of local or systemic adverse reactions.
CONCLUSION
The new Protectaid sponge is a safe and effective non-hormonal contraceptive method for women.
© Copyright 2026, Nutrition Evidence
NED wishes to thank the following organisations for their support:
We use cookies to improve your experience and analyze site traffic with Google Analytics. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more.