A Different Non-Hormonal Birth Control Option: Try This Next Time

Most couples struggle through birth control schedules and methods. There are countless birth control options available online and offline. Each of them comes with their set of benefits and drawbacks. It becomes quite challenging to select the most preferred method of birth control. If you are not satisfied with the birth control pills and are in search of a more convenient option, here we have shared one for you. It is a relatively new birth control option approved by the FDA in 2020. Here we have shared all the facts regarding this unique non-hormonal birth control method. We have shared the pros as well as cons to give you a clear picture. Read along and find out all about this non-hormonal FDA approved birth control option.

What is the Concept Behind This Innovative Birth Control Option?

Phexxi is a new and innovative non-hormonal birth control gel that was approved by the FDA in 2020. Since it is a completely new type of non-hormonal birth control method, you may naturally hesitate to try it. This won’t be the case when you are well informed about this new contraceptive method. We hope to keep you informed by writing this post. The concept of Phexxi is simple and easy to understand. 

The vagina is acidic by nature while the semen released by the male counterpart is highly basic. The PH value of the acids in the vagina is PH 4 while the semen has PH 7.5. When the semen enters the vagina during intercourse, the vaginal fluids become more basic to ensure the survival of the sperm. This process is hindered with the help of Phexxi that is highly acidic. This modern contraceptive gel contains citric acid, lactic acid and potassium bitartrate that together maintain the acidic nature of the vagina preventing conception. This method of birth control may benefit women’s health by preventing conception.

How Effective Is This Non-Hormonal Birth Control Option?

A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this birth control method. The subjects considered in the study included 71% white women, 24% black women and 2.5% brown women. The study was conducted over 7 cycles of birth control. The study revealed that Phexxi was effective in 86% cases while in 14% cases women got pregnant in spite of this method. This means that you may consider the use of this method parallely with other methods to ensure best effectiveness.

What are the Pros and Cons of This Birth Control Option?

Knowledge about women’s health also implies knowing the pros and cons of the chosen birth control method. Here we have shared a list to give you a detailed picture. Check them out:

Pros:

• The method is a good option for women who are seeking non-hormonal birth control options.
• The method is effective in 86% of the cases.
• The effectiveness of this method can be increased further by using it in combination with other methods.

Cons:

• The method may result in pregnancy in 14% of the cases.
• The user needs to use an applicator to apply the gel each time before intercourse. This means if the person plans to have intercourse multiple times in one night, she will have to use Phexxi the same number of times.
• One third of the women who tested the Phexxi birth control for its effectiveness experienced irritation and burning sensation in their vulva and vaginal areas.
• 1% women who used this method also suffered more serious side effects such as urinary tract infection.
• Some men also complained of irritation and itching due to the use of this birth control gel.
• The gel does not protect against STIs.

What are Some Common Queries Regarding This Birth Control Option?

Get all your doubts about Phexxi cleared before you use it as a birth control option. We have listed answers to most common queries regarding Phexxi use here:

How to Use Phexxi as Birth Control?

A prefilled applicator in the size and shape of a tampon is used to apply Phexxi gel to the vagina. The gel works immediately and may last up to an hour. This means you may have to use another round when you plan multiple rounds of intercourse.

Can Phexxi Protect Against STIs?

No! Phexxi gel cannot protect against STIs. Women need to use condoms to avoid such women’s health problems.

What are the Different Birth Control Options Available Today?

There are several hormonal and non-hormonal birth control options available today. Barrier methods such as condoms, IUDs are all effective. You can rely on hormonal birth control pills that are available in two types. You can go for progestin only pills or combination pills packs. You can easily order each of these birth control pills online from our store and have the medicines delivered to your door. Get a discount on the shipping prices as you place orders in bulk.