The contraceptive sponge, marketed in the U.S. under the brand "Today" since about 1990, combines barrier and spermicidal techniques to prevent conception.
The sponges are inserted vaginally prior to intercourse, and must be placed over the cervix to be effective. An elastic band across the sponge is present to facilitate removal.
Effectiveness prevention of pregnancy is about 95% (that is, studies show that 95% of couples using only this method, the woman did not become pregnant), making the contraceptive sponge only slightly more effective than spermicidal foam. When combined with condoms, sponges are as effective as any other reversible method of contraception.
Insertion of the sponge requires reaching the cervix with one finger, and is generally performed by the woman. Unlike some other methods, it is difficult to incorporate placement of the sponge into the sexual experience.
The sponges are not effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases.