Where are contraceptive sponges?

Dear Spongeless,

Never fear, the sponge is here (again)! As of May 2009, the contraceptive sponge is back on drug store shelves. Sponge-users can also purchase a three-pack for $13.99 on the Today® Sponge website.  

Since its debut in 1983, American women have had an on-again/off-again relationship with the contraceptive sponge. The sponge first disappeared from store shelves in 1994 when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) discovered a manufacturing problem. In 1998, Allendale Pharmaceuticals, Inc. bought the rights to manufacture the Today® Sponge, but more stringent FDA regulations delayed distribution of the sponge until 2005. The sponge was available until 2008 when the next manufacturer, Synova Healthcare Group filed for bankruptcy. These days, the sponge has yet another distributor — Mayer Labs. Meanwhile, the sponge has gained a certain cult status thanks to a "Seinfeld" episode that coined the phrase "spongeworthy" in reference to a potential romantic partner deemed worthy of using a precious sponge.

Despite its appeal, the sponge contains spermicide, which can irritate the delicate tissues of the vagina and urethra, leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other forms of vagina infections (vaginitis). If you continue to have frequent UTIs while using a diaphragm or the sponge, you may want to consider another form of birth control. Other non-hormonal, non-spermicidal contraception choices include tubal ligation (sterilization), the copper-T IUD, the female condom, and fertility awareness (listed from most to least effective).

You may find it helpful to talk with a health care provider about the best pregnancy prevention method for you. Before your appointment, you can find information about other types of contraception in the related Q&As.

If the sponge is still worthy of your approval, look for the new teal-colored packaging at your drug store or pharmacy.