nonoxinol-9 at a glance
Medicine class
Vaginal, non-hormonal spermicide
Licensed use
Used with a contraceptive diaphragm or cervical cap
STI protection
Does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections
Selected product status
Gygel Contraceptive Jelly is discontinued
What is nonoxinol-9 used for?
The selected product had one licensed role.
Spermicidal contraception used with a diaphragm or cervical cap.
Not for HIV or STI prevention, or contraception on its own.
How does nonoxinol-9 work?
Nonoxinol-9 is a surfactant that disrupts sperm-cell membranes, causing loss of movement and sperm death. The diaphragm or cap separately blocks sperm from reaching the cervix.
How to take nonoxinol-9
For vaginal use by adults. Apply it to a correctly fitted diaphragm or cap following the product and device instructions, then position the barrier over the cervix. Douching soon after intercourse is not recommended.
Wash your hands and check the diaphragm or cap for damage.
Use only with a correctly fitted diaphragm or cap.
Do not swallow the gel.
Ask for device-fit reassessment after childbirth, miscarriage or substantial weight change.
nonoxinol-9 side effects
Common or expected effects
- Local irritation, burning, itching or discomfort
- Vaginal or vulval dryness, redness or rash
- Penile irritation in a sexual partner
- Pain at the application site
Get urgent medical advice
- Severe allergic reaction, including swelling or breathing difficulty
- Marked or persistent genital irritation, epithelial damage or ulceration
- Frequent use-related mucosal damage that may increase susceptibility to HIV exposure
nonoxinol-9 in pregnancy
Do not use the selected product if pregnancy is suspected or confirmed. Human evidence has not established a clear fetal risk, but animal findings include possible embryotoxicity and it has no role once pregnancy has occurred.
nonoxinol-9 while breastfeeding
Use during breastfeeding has not been adequately studied. The product information reports detection in animal milk, so discuss use with a doctor or sexual health service. A diaphragm or cap may need refitting after childbirth.
nonoxinol-9 interactions
No direct interaction with systemic medicines is established, but some products can damage latex contraceptive devices.
Petroleum jelly and mineral oil
Can damage latex diaphragms or caps and reduce contraceptive protection.
Oil-based vaginal or rectal preparations
Avoid concurrent use with latex barriers because they may weaken the material.
Other vaginal products and lubricants
Check compatibility with the diaphragm or cap, particularly if it contains latex.
Common questions about nonoxinol-9
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is nonoxinol-9 used for?
It is a spermicide used with a contraceptive diaphragm or cervical cap to help prevent pregnancy.
Does it protect against HIV or other STIs?
No. It does not prevent STIs, and genital irritation or damage may increase vulnerability to HIV exposure.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.