quote:

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The spermicide nonoxynol-9 is not effective as a means of protection against HIV infection and frequent use may actually increase a woman's odds of contracting the virus,according to a study published in the Sept. 28 issue of the Lancet.

In related news, a "broad-based" coalition of more than 85 scientists and health groups, calling itself the "Call to Discontinue N-9 for Rectal Use," yesterday called on condom and lubricant manufacturers to voluntarily cease using nonoxynol-9 in their products. “We are concerned that many
people mistakenly believe that N-9 provides extra protection against HIV and STDs when in fact studies show that N-9 increases risk of infection when it is used rectally,” said
Lori Heise, Director of the Global Campaign for Microbicides, the group spearheading the call. The group says that nonoxynol-9 is still safe if the primary intent for use is as a contraceptive during vaginal sex and not as a preventive measure for STIs.

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-Planned Parenthood Federation of Canada

Sources:
http://www.kaisernetwork.org/daily_reports/rep_index.cfm?hint=1&DR_ID=13713
http://www.global-campaign.org/n-9call.htm

What this means for teenagers and young adults:

Choose condoms that do not contain spermicide. Condoms with spermicide (nonoxynol-9) can lead to an increase risk of HIV transmission.

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-Scarleteen Sexpert

It said Nonoxynol-9 might irritate the vagina making it easier for the virus to get into the bloodstream through tiny abrasions on the vaginal lining.

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Heather Corinna
Editor and Founder, Scarleteen

(See, we really are all-wise ).