Mutagenicity of vaginal spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 in a bacterial assay.

Objective: To evaluate the potential mutagenicity of 3 commonly used over-the-counter spermicidal gels containing nonoxynol-9 as the active ingredient.

Study Design: The gels were examined for their ability to produce mutations in a bacterial assay (Ames test). The results were compared with those from testing a series of nonantibacterial and antibacterial personal prwhen there is antibacterial personal products that come into contact with mucous membranes as well as some caustic, nonpersonal home products and a known mutagen.

Results: All 3 spermicidal gels were as mutagenic or more mutagenic than the other products tested in each category. Although activation by liver extract was required for 2 of the gels to show mutagenicity in this assay, the third was mutagenic without liver activation.

Conclusion: Because of the intimate contact of spermicidal gels with human gametes and the possibility that components of the gels may be absorbed systemically and reach the unfertilized or fertilized ovum, the fact that these gels have mutagenic potential raises concern in cases in which conception occurs.