I'm sure we've all heard about this interesting form of birth control (possibly from an old Seinfeld episode) and I've got to tell you that the Today® Sponge, though weird and uncommonly talked about, is back.
So where did it go and why? It was originally introduced in 1983 and went off the market in 1995 because the former manufacturer didn't want to pay for the costs of getting the plant up to acceptable manufacturing standards. In 2005, Allendale Pharmaceuticals, Inc. purchased the Today Sponge and updated the manufacturing equipment to meet all of the current FDA manufacturing standards, so it's back on the shelves.
It's a hormone-free birth control option made of a soft, disposable medical grade polyurethane foam that feels like natural vaginal tissue. The 1.75 inch sponge is moistened with water and contains the spermicide nonoxynol 9. Once you insert it into your vagina, it will prevent pregnancy for up to 24 hours. It's 89-91% effective and is great for people who like the idea of spermicidal creams and gels, but who don't like the messiness.
Does the Today Sponge prevent against STIs? To find out read more
You should be aware that the Today Sponge does not prevent against STIs whatsoever, so using condoms along with it is a great idea so you stay protected.
Also, some people may have a sensitivity to nonoxynol 9, so if you experience a burning sensation, or a weird discharge, chances are this method of birth control isn't right for you.
You can find the Today Sponge at most pharmacies or drug stores (check out the new hot pink packaging!) and it costs about $10 for 3 sponges.
Dear's Advice: The Today Sponge is a great option if you are in a mutually monogamous relationship with someone who is disease-free.
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Tara Matthews
THANKS SO MUCH FOR COVERING THIS!!!
1I have tried the sponge. It kind of bothers me that it's only 89% effective, but that's better than nothing!
2isn't there some sort of spermicide that lowers the effectiveness of condoms? is this that spermicide?
3so i heard about this through seinfeld and always thought it was something the producers made up lol
i'm intrigued to try!
looks uncomfortable-ish though?
4yeah, 89-91% doesn't really cut it for me.
5Omg does anyone remember the Seinfeld episode about this/ Where Elaine found out they were discontinued and stocked up on them-then only used it on guys that were sponge-worthy? I still laugh out loud when i see that episode. classic.
6umm.....sponge-worthy lol?
79-11% chance of pregnancy is way too high imo especially when there are options with much less risk
8let me just say that these things smell like rotting death
9If you cant take hormone based birth control (like me!) the sponge is a great alternative. We've used it successfully for four years -- but we are really careful and add spermicide during peak ovulation days.
10It's true! They do smell like rotting death!
11Only 89% effective and smelly... I think I'm going to pass
12Today is SOOOO yesterday. I actually used to find these in my moms "sex ed box" when she taught it in high school. I always thought it was a tiny hat.
13I've never heard of this on Seinfield because I never watched the show. But I do remember this thing from back in the 80's I think. I thought it was long gone by now.
14I bookmarked the today sponge in desperate hopes that you would cover it and so I could see more opinions. Thanks!
15CaterpillarGirl: Tiny hat LOL
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