Risks

About 28 out of 100 women who use spermicide alone will get pregnant in the first year of typical use. The vaginal pH regulator gel has shown similar results. Using backup birth control can reduce the risk of pregnancy.

Spermicide may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Vaginal irritation — such as burning or itching or a rash — is the most common side effect of spermicide. Spermicide may also cause an allergic reaction. Spermicide may cause penile irritation or burning urination in your sexual partner.

Spermicide doesn't prevent sexually transmitted infections. Using spermicide frequently may increase vaginal irritation from the spermicide's active ingredient, nonoxynol-9, which may increase the risk of contracting HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Rectal use of spermicide isn't recommended because it may increase the risk of getting an STI.

Vaginal pH regulator gel can cause vaginal itching or a burning sensation in the vagina. Penile irritation is also possible. More research is needed to know whether this contraceptive gel might protect against STIs.

You can use vaginal pH regulator gel in combination with most types of birth control, but it's not recommended for use with the vaginal ring.