The Today Sponge is Off the Market Again in 2008

The Today Sponge has disappeared from drugstore shelves for the second time, leaving users of the popular contraceptive device scratching their heads. The product's first removal from stores in 1994 was well-covered, even featuring on an episode of Seinfeld, when Elaine, short on supply, had to determine if a partner was "sponge-worthy." Users who preferred the Today method of birth control were thrilled when the product returned in 2005, but where is it now? Information on the product is sadly lacking, and prices are soaring as racketeers hoard the product and sell it for hugely inflated prices.

What is the Today Sponge?

Sponges are barrier contraceptive devices that block the flow of sperm, and also contain Nonoxynol-9, a spermicide. It works much like a disposable diaphragm, containing a loop for easy removal. The sponge has a low effectiveness rate when inserted incorrectly, but up to 99% effectiveness when used properly. According to my own gynecologist, women who can easily locate their cervix and have experience using diaphragms should have no more worries than with using other methods of birth control.

As the Today Sponge does not protect against STDs, it's not a recommended method of birth control for younger people or those with multiple partners, but is ideal for monogamous couples, especially among women with bad reactions to the Pill. The main reason the sponge has so many fans, though, is that one sponge is effective for twenty-four hours. It only has to be inserted once, and you're good to go until the next day, even with repeated acts of intercourse. Using one in advance of a date means being protected without having to interrupt anything, as the sponge can be used hours in advance. It's also unobtrusive, and can't usually be felt by your partner.

Why the First Disappearance?