Did you know, more than 60% of women use various terrific tools of birth control? If you belong to the childbearing age category, you may notice different birth control procedures, particularly male or female condoms, birth control medications, IUDs, patches, shots, implants, and vaginal rings. In the list, there is a new addition that you should know:
Phexxi, A Birth Control Gel!
Let’s Know More About Phexxi!
For your information, Phexxi is a birth control gel authorized by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by May 2020. A prescription therapy, Phexxi comprises lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate. Opposite to conventional birth control methods, Phexxi does not include hormones.
Phexxi functions by reducing the vagina’s pH level, stimulating it to make it impossible for sperm to withstand and enter the egg. As we know, the normal pH level of the vagina is 3.5 to 4.5. So, when sperm enters the vagina, the vagina’s pH puts up and the sperm can transit to the egg. However, Phexxi reduces the pH that lessens the possibility of the sperm entering the ovum.
Evofem Biosciences produces Phexxi, and there is presently no generic available.
When Should I Use The Birth Control Gel?
Phexxi barely works when used before sexual intercourse and it will not prohibit gestation if tried after. For usage, apply the doses of one pre-filled applicator just earlier or up to one hour before sexual intercourse. However, if you have intercourse more than once within an hour, you must consume an extra dose of Phexxi.
If sex does not happen within one hour, apply one more dose. Phexxi can be consumed with other contraception methods, but it cannot be used with vaginal ring tools, such as NuvaRing. You can use Phexxi at any period during your menstruation.
How Effective Is Phexxi?
According to clinical trials, Phexxi was experimented with during seven menstrual cycles and it was approximately 86% beneficial. Barely, 14% of women got pregnant during that time. Discerning the advice strictly will reduce your probability of being pregnant.
What Are The Side Effects Of Phexxi?
The most predominant consequences of consuming Phexxi are common side effects like irritation and itching around the vulva and vagina. However, its additional side effects include:
- Vaginal fungal infection
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Urinary tract illness
- Irritation
- Vaginal discharge
- Discomfort when urinating
In the process, the male partner may also suffer limited side effects, such as burning or itching.
Difference Between Phexxi, Spermicide, And Vcf?
Phexxi is not the only type of vaginal contraceptive; while, there are also spermicides and vaginal contraceptive films available. However, these three techniques do not Ensure against sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Regardless, there are many differences among them.
As mentioned above, Phexxi is a non-hormonal contraceptive gel that requires a doctor’s prescription. It reduces the vagina’s pH level to a better acidic span, making it tough for sperm to overcome and enter the egg.
Spermicide is a material that murders sperm when sperm arrives in touch with it. They are made of jelly, cream, foam, suppositories, and film forms. Extensively, spermicides comprise nonoxynol-9. Leaning on the formulation, you can put in the spermicide with your finger or an applicator at the instructed time before sex.
VCF, the Vaginal Contraceptive Film, is a smooth, dissolvable square of a sheet that comprises the FDA-approved spermicide nonoxynol-9. VCF is normally fixed into the vagina at least 15 minutes before sex. The coating dissolves, building a gel covering of spermicide, which destroys sperm for up to three hours.
Who Should Not Use Phexxi?
Although Phexxi can be consumed with other birth control methods, or with vaginal fungal illness therapy, it should not be used with a vaginal ring, such as NuvaRing.
Women with a record of urinary tract illnesses or irregularities should communicate the threats of Phexxi with their therapist/doctors.
Image courtesy: Refinery Talks
Udisha Srivastav is a Freelance Content Writer with Femsay.com