Is the fetus safe when spermicides fail?

Studies of the association between vaginal spermicides and adverse fetal outcomes have produced conflicting results. Meta-analysis allows data from different studies to be combined so that appropriate statistical power can be achieved. Nine studies investigating teratogenicity met the inclusion criteria. The Mantel-Haenszel summary odds ratio was 1.02 (95% confidence interval, 0.78-1.32), suggesting that maternal use of spermicides is not associated with fetal malformations or any other adverse fetal outcomes. Meta-analysis is recommended as the standard for evaluating reproductive outcomes after exposure to drugs, chemicals, radiation, and infections during pregnancy.