The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a mandate today requiring makers of over-the-counter spermicidal products and vaginal contraceptives containing nonoxynol 9 (N9) to warn consumers that the products do not prevent transmission of HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases (fda.gov, 12/18).
In a press release, the FDA states that the only guaranteed forms of protection from STD transmission are abstinence, being in a monogamous relationship with a person who has been tested and does not have STDs, or to use condoms correctly.
In addition, the FDA warns that products containing nonoxynol 9 may cause irritation in the vagina and rectum, which increases the risk of HIV transmission if one of the partners is infected.
The new rule, which is currently being finalized, would also require N9 product labels to warn consumers that the product is for vaginal use only, and is not recommended for use during anal sex.
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