Spermicidal & contraceptive properties of Praneem polyherbal pessary

Background & objectives: Though a number of barrier methods and potent sper micides are available, most of these have nonoxynol-9 (N-9) as the active i ngredient which is observed to cause inflammation and genital ulceration on repeated use. The present study was undertaken to develop a safe spermicid e with conjoint microbicidal properties. Methods: A polyherbal pessary was formulated with purified ingredients from neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves, Sapindus mukerossi (pericarp of fruit) a nd Mentha citrata oil. Spermicidal action oil human sperm was tested by San der-Cramer slide test in vitro and by post coital tests in vivo. Contracept ive action was tested in rabbits. Results: The combination of the three herbal ingredients resulted in the po tentiation of the spermicidal action by 8-folds. The post coital tests conf irmed the spermicidal properties of the Praneem polyherbal pessary (PPP) in women with high cervical mucous score around mid estrus. It also prevented in most women the migration of sperm into the cervical mucous. In 15 rabbi ts studied pregnancy was prevented by the intravaginal administration of PP P, whereas 13 of the 15 animals in the control group became pregnant. Interpretation & conclusion: The Praneem polyherbal pessary has potent sper micidal action on human sperm in vitro and in vivo. When applied in the vag ina before mating, it prevented rabbits from becoming pregnant.