Where to buy sponge

While a birth control sponge can protect against pregnancy, it cannot prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections STIs. The birth control sponge may not be suitable for people who have vaginal infections, a history of toxic shock syndrome TSS , or an allergy to spermicides and polyurethane. At the time of publishing, there is only one brand of birth control sponge, the Today Sponge, available to buy in the United States.

This article explores what the birth control sponge is, where to buy it, and how it compares to other contraceptive methods. The birth control sponge is a nonhormonal birth control method. It is round, is made from polyurethane foam, and contains spermicide. A person inserts it into their vagina before sexual activity to prevent pregnancy. They can use the attached fabric loop to take out the sponge after sex. Learn more about nonhormonal birth control. The birth control sponge is suitable for most people who do not want to use hormonal birth control.

However, unlike other barrier birth control methods, such as internal and external condoms , the birth control sponge does not protect against STIs. People may consider using a condom in addition to the sponge to prevent pregnancy and STIs. Additionally, people may prefer to use a different form of contraception if they :. People should discuss any relevant medical history with a healthcare professional before using a birth control sponge.

Additionally, people should not use the sponge when they are menstruating or experiencing vaginal bleeding. Doing so can increase the risk of TSS. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ACOG states that barrier birth control, such as condoms, spermicide, and sponges, is not as effective as hormonal contraception.

Also, the birth control sponge does not protect against the transmission of STIs. A person will have to use a condom to protect against any STIs.

Every year, up to 28 out of females will become pregnant while using barrier birth control. A person can use the sponge alongside condoms to increase protection against unintended pregnancy and the transmission of STIs.

If any method of barrier birth control becomes misplaced during sexual activity, people may wish to consider using emergency contraception. Additionally, Planned Parenthood states that the birth control sponge is more effective for those who have never given birth.

A person can keep the birth control sponge in their vagina for up to 30 hours. They can insert the sponge up to 24 hours before having sex and must leave the sponge in for 6 hours after sex. To remove the sponge, a person should squat or place one leg on a raised surface, hold onto the fabric loop, and gently pull it out. If a person finds it difficult to reach the sponge, they can bear down with their vaginal muscles while reaching for it.

The birth control sponge is not reusable. People must throw it away once they have finished using it. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to the polyurethane or sulfites present in the sponge.

Rarely, people who use a birth control sponge can develop TSS. Yellow Tip Cleaning Sponge. Advance Tech Services Private Limited. Scott Multipurpose Sponge Wipes, Packet. Cleaning Sponge Price. BETA These are indicative values based on popular product prices. Prices across cities for Cleaning Sponge. Is the information useful? Sponge Cloth 18 X I agree to the terms and privacy policy.

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Follow us on: Facebook Twitter linkedin. Really, it's just more bang for your buck. Happy buyers have pointed out that the Natural Sea Sponge will last you for years, and further noted that they don't retain odor like many other sponges might. Cons: Because these guys are totally natural, they're not necessarily harsh enough to do serious cleaning on stuck-on food for your dishes.

Even if you constantly nuke your sponges in the microwave or throw them in the dishwasher for a quick spin, there's still something a little And if you're a germaphobe, rather than using cellulose sponges, you'll probably want to take a look at the non-porous Kuhn Rikon silicone sponges instead.

They don't feel anything like the sponges that you're accustomed to, nor do they hold onto and disseminate germs like traditional options do. Rather, these silicone sponges are designed to be used for a long time. Silicone, after all, is much hardier than cellulose, and because it's not being constantly inundated with germs, you don't have to worry about the health risks associated with keeping them in your kitchen for several months on end.

If ever a sponge can make cleaning fun, the Kuhn Rikon can do it. The sponge takes some getting used to because it has supremely soft bristles, and is extremely flexible. Honestly, it may feel like you're holding a bowl of jelly. And because of this wiggliness, you'll want to be careful when soaping the sponge up for its cleaning purposes. If you use too much soap, it'll be hard to hang onto the Kuhn Rikon.

That said, I didn't have a ton of trouble getting a decent clean with this silicone sponge. If you're accustomed to a traditional sponge which I assume you are , this will take some getting used to, but once you've familiarized yourself enough with the feel and the abilities of the Kuhn Rikon , it's a much less smelly and germy way to take care of your dirty dishes.

These sponges are also great for a number of other purposes around the house, like scrubbing potatoes, picking up lint, or even cleaning your makeup brushes.

And because you can just throw this sponge in the dishwasher to get it clean, you can technically use the same sponge for all these purposes though you might as well just buy a few.

Pros: Super sanitary, silicone has a strange but oddly comfortable texture, practically odorless, long lasting. Cons: Some customers have noted issues with using the Kuhn Rikon in a traditional dishwashing setting, but have found other effective applications of the sponge. Your bathroom always needs a good cleaning, and having the right tools on hand is essential if you want it to be squeaky clean. We've tested tons of cleaners to find the best bathroom cleaning products you can buy.

A top-quality dish soap has a pleasant scent if it has a scent at all, cleans the most stubborn pots and pans, and is eco- and hand-friendly. These are our favorite options. A top-quality dish drying rack has a large capacity without taking up too much space, is designed for easy water run-off and efficient drying, and is easy to clean.

Top-quality kitchen towels are durable, absorb the biggest spills, and handle easily. Here are our top picks. Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting.

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