Antimicrobial and contraceptive compositions and methods which prevent and / or reduce the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted diseases through sexual activity as well as prevent and / or reduce the risk of
pregnancy are provided. The compositions contain (1) a matrix-forming agent, (2) a bio-
adhesive agent, (3) a
buffering agent, (4) optionally a
humectant, (5) optionally a
preservative, and (6) water; wherein the composition is suitable for application within the
vagina; wherein the compositions form a semisolid matrix on contact with ejaculate (thereby
trapping ejaculated microbes and spermatozoa); wherein the composition causes hardening of
cervical mucus (thereby decreasing the probability of
sperm entry); wherein the composition forms a bio-
adhesive layer over vaginal surfaces (thereby preventing or reducing the risk of contact of STD-causing microbes with the vaginal surfaces); wherein the composition maintains an acidic vaginal pH of less than about 5 in the presence of
semen ejaculated from the male; and wherein the composition does not significantly impair the natural microbiological balance within the
vagina. The
antimicrobial and contraceptive compositions may also contain additional
antimicrobial and / or contraceptive agents (e.g., nonoxynol-9, octoxynol-9,
benzalkonium chloride, phosphorylated hesperidins, sulfonated hesperidins,
polystyrene sulfonates, substituted
benzenesulfonic acid formaldehyde co-polymers, H2SO4-modified mandelic acids, povidone
iodine,
itraconazole,
ketoconazole,
metronidazole,
clotrimazole,
fluconazole, teraconazole,
miconazole,
tinidazole, iconazole,
chloramphenicol,
nystatin, cyclopiroxolamine, and the like).