Sponges

Today Sponge®

Mayer Laboratories, Inc.
The Today Sponge® is a small, pliable, polyurethane foam sponge containing Nonoxynol-9 (N9). A concave depression on one side fits against the cervix, and a soft loop on the other side can be grasped for removal. The Today Sponge® is designed to protect against pregnancy for 24 hours, regardless of the number of acts of intercourse, but users are counseled to leave the sponge in place for six hours after intercourse before removing it. In 1995, the Today Sponge® was removed from the U.S. market for commercial reasons, but as of early 2009 it is available in certain pharmacies and can be purchased online. It is also available in Canada.

Protectaid Sponge®

Pirri Pharma, Canada
The Protectaid® contraceptive sponge is a barrier device made of polyurethane foam impregnated with F-5 Gel, which contains three active agents: Nonoxynol-9 (N9), Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC), and Sodium Cholate (NACOL). This individually wrapped disposable sponge is ready to use and designed with slots for easy insertion and removal. The Protectaid Sponge® provides protection for a 12 hour period; a new sponge is not required if multiple acts of intercourse occur during that period. It is to be left in for 6 hours after intercourse. The Protectaid sponge® was introduced in 1996 in Canada and in 2000 in Europe, but it is not available in the U.S.

Pharmatex Sponge

The Pharmatex Sponge is a foam cylinder impregnated with 60 mg of the spermicide Benzalkonium chloride (BZK). It may be inserted up to 24 hours before vaginal intercourse, and it must not be removed for a minimum of 2 hours after the last act of vaginal intercourse. In addition, it should not be left in place for more than 24 hours. The Pharmatex Sponge was introduced to the European Market in 1984, but it is not available in the U.S.