People looking at birth control options have more choices than ever before – but they also need to ask themselves more questions. Do I want to take a pill every day? Am I willing to have an IUD inserted? Am I worried about hormones? STIs? Am I comfortable using condoms every time?
If you are looking for a birth control option that provides the highest level of protection on an ongoing basis, talk with your health care provider about the pill or IUD. (And yes, with a condom to protect against STDs.) But if you are looking for an effective, on-demand, hormone-free option, there’s a new one to consider: Phexxi.
Phexxi is a non-hormonal prescription vaginal gel used to prevent pregnancy. It is only effective when used immediately before (or up to 1 hour before) each act of vaginal sex. Phexxi is not effective when used after vaginal sex, and if there are multiple acts, Phexxi should be applied each time.
“Phexxi works to decrease vaginal pH, which reduces sperm motility, lowering the chance of sperm reaching the egg. It is designed to stay in place in the vagina during intercourse,” explains Casey Thompson PA-C of Planned Parenthood of the Southwest. “It’s a newer birth control option, so people are just learning about it. It is highly effective – about 86% as compared to the pill’s 91% efficacy – and provides a good option for those looking for hormone-free, on-demand methods.
“When it comes to choosing a birth control method, some of the most commonly asked questions are around efficacy – how well it works – ease of use and if it prevents anything beyond pregnancy. Phexxi’s efficacy has been proven. It is more effective than condoms alone.”
Phexxi is different that spermicide since it takes advantage of the vagina’s natural acidity. Spermicides contain nonoxynol-9 or N-9, which has the potential to damage the vaginal wall, particularly after repeated use. Phexxi does not.
A person’s birth control choices can change over time. Some might want a hormonal option for the highest efficacy in preventing pregnancy. But for others, hormones might be a negative or concerns around IUD insertion is a non-starter. It is important, notes Thompson, that you consult with a health care provider to explore all the options before making a decision.
“We, at Planned Parenthood, are happy to have a consultation appointment to discuss the various methods of birth control,” she notes. “We recommend coming in, getting your questions answered and leaving with a plan. Yes, all methods carry some risk, so it’s important to learn about them to make an educated decision that fits your body and lifestyle.”
Phexxi is available by prescription, and comes in a 12-applicator pack. It is covered by insurance and state-funded Family PACT, so it will be offered at no cost for most patients.
Want to learn more about Phexxi or other birth control methods? Make an appointment at planned.org or call us at 1-888-743-7526. You can get an appointment with us in days, not weeks, and we accept many forms of insurance.
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