Contraception. A spermicide foam. Spermicides are available in a wide range including aerosol foams, creams, jellies, pessaries, soluble plastic films or foaming tablets. Spermicides have to be placed in the vagina as near to the cervix as possible. Some preparations are recommended for use with a condom or a diaphragm while others are intended to be used alone. Spermicides should be applied shortly before intercourse and a fresh application is needed when intercourse is repeated or prolonged.