A NEW TEST OF TOTAL SPERMICIDAL POWER

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Abstract
A new test for total spermicidal power is described. It is carried out at 35 to 37CC; the spermicidal compound is diluted, spermicidal solution and semen are mixed together, the spermatozoa are exposed to attack for a short constant time, and the mixture is sampled and observed. The presence or absence of moving spermatozoa decides whether the test is scored "fail" or, provisionally, "pass"; if the latter, an attempt is made to revive the immobile spermatozoa with alkaline buffered glucose solution, but if no revival is produced, the test is scored "pass". In making the spermicidal solution, the product is measured by weight and diluted with physiological saline solution. Results are given that show the effect of semen ageing and of altered test temperature, and the variation found in individual ejaculates and between different ones. Some comparison is made between the new test and the Baker test, the established test for chemical spermicidal contraceptives in Britain. It is hoped that this International Planned Parenthood Federation test will be generally accepted and that the clinical and laboratory procedures used in evaluating chemical spermicidal contraceptives can be standardized.

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