meyer@waltz.UUCP (01/30/85)
I saw a posting on the net somewhere (maybe even this group) that
indicated this sponge deal caused infections for many women. This
lady that posted the information said that she tried the sponge on
three different occations -- each time resulted in an infection.
It would appear at first glance that the sponge is not such a hot
idea.
==============================================================================
Dane Meyer (Texas Instruments, Dallas site)
ARPA: ==> Meyer%waltz%TI-CSL@CSNET-Relay
CSNET: ==> Meyer@TI-CSL
USENET: ==> {convex!smu, ut-sally, texsun, rice}!waltz!meyer andrea@hp-sdd.UUCP (andrea) (02/23/85)
So far, the drawbacks I have heard of are:
(1) danger of Toxic Shock Syndrome, the same as with tampons.
Likelihood unknown, possibility reduced by not leaving it in any longer
than the minimum recommended.
(2) possibilty of allergic reaction or local irritation
(male or female) to the sperimicide used; apparently it is at a much
higher concentration than in the foams or jellies used with
diaphragms. However, I have always reacted to foams and had no
reaction to the sponge, so this is probably very individual.
(3) providing a fertile growing ground for low-key invisible infections
already present to escalate into something bothersome. Again, don't
leave it in all day even though the package insert says you can.
Taking preventive action (acidophilus, vinegar douche, etc) after
removing it also helps.
(4) because of needing to insert one's fingers deeply into the vagina
to ensure proper placement, there is risk of scratching or picking up
an infection (depending on length and cleanliness of fingernails!).
This is easy to eliminate, unless you are prone to fits of passion while
gardening! :-)
I always hate to be a human guinea-pig for things that are poorly
tested, but it's so hard to find a really good method of contraception
that is safe, healthful, quick and easy to use, and doesn't interfere
with your love life!
Andrea Frankel, Hewlett-Packard (San Diego Division) (619) 487-4100 x4664
net: {allegra|ihnp4|decvax|ucbvax}!hplabs!hp-sdd!andrea
...searchlights casting for faults in the clouds of delusion