Some girls find it difficult to place the sponge exactly and removing it. Or maybe forget to take it out all together. The contraceptive sponge really has to be used with condoms. To lessen the risk of getting an STD. Some people are allergic to the spermicide used in the sponge. Women who use contraceptive sponges have a risk of yeast infection and urinary tract infection. Wrong use, such as leaving the sponge in too long, can outcome in toxic shock syndrome. Don’t leave your sponge in for more than 30 hours. Sponges must be stored in a clean, cool, dark place—not in the glove compartment of a car or in a purse.

no protection against sexually transmitted diseases

some women cannot easily reach their cervix and must choose a different form of contraception; can be difficult to insert properly and remove

the spermicides in the contraceptive sponge can make performing oral sex on the wearer unsavory

many people have complained about the "numbing" effect of the sponge.

Spermicide use may result in a temporary irritation of the vulva, vagina or penis
Spermicides, especially foams, jellies and creams, can be messy, which can lead to reduced use

Spermicide must be applied repeatedly with each act of intercourse

Some spermicides have an unpleasant odor or taste

It must be left in place for at least six hours after intercourse

It must be used correctly and consistently to avoid failure

The user must be comfortable with insertion and removal as well as assertive enough to insist on correct timing of this insertion and removal

It is less effective in women who have previously been pregnant

The spermicidal agents used in conjunction with it cause occasional sensitivity reactions

It may increase vaginal yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis

It should not be used during menstruation

It may be forgotten and left in place

Some women may find it difficult to remove the sponge, or may forget to remove it altogether

If the sponge is left in the vagina for too long, symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may appear

Cannot be used by people who are allergic to spermicides

May not be used by women (or their partners) who are allergic to sulfites/sulfa drugs or polyurethane

It can’t be used within the first 6 weeks after giving birth

Using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases
A woman who is having her period cannot use the sponge

Women who use the sponge may be at a slightly increased risk of toxic shock syndrome; women who have a history of toxic shock syndrome should not use the sponge
People who are sensitive to Nonoxynol-9 may experience irritation which can include localized burning, itching, redness or rash; these symptoms will typically subside gradually within a few days to a week

For each act of sex, you need a fresh, unopened sponge and clean water.

If left within the vagina for more than 30 hours, the sponge slightly increases your risk for a very serious infection called toxic shock syndrome. Don't leave your sponge in for more than 30 hours.