Contraceptive Film

Recently Answered

• QWhat is a vaginal contraceptive film?

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  A Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answered

  Made of nonoxynyl-9, the active ingredient that kills sperm on contact, VCF can get inserted into the vagina ten minutes before sex. It dissolves to foam, and VCF plus a condom provides close to 100 percent protection against pregnancy.
• QHow frequently can I use and reapply VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  In order for VCF to be effective, a new film must be inserted each time you have intercourse, even if this is more than once a day. Frequent use can increase your risk of skin irritation.
• QWhat should I avoid while using VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  While using VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film, it is best to avoid:
  

  • use of vaginal cleansers, such as a douches within 6 - 8 hours after intercourse (These products can was away the film's sperm-killing ingredient and increase your risk of becoming pregnant.)
  • unprotected sex (VCF does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases; condom use -- along with VCF -- can reduce this risk.)
• QHow effective is VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film at preventing pregnancy?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  When correctly used alone, spermicides such as VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film are about 85 percent effective at preventing pregnancy over the course of one year. Use of a second type of birth control, such as a condom, will increase effectiveness. If you have been advised to avoid pregnancy due to a serious medical condition, VCF may not be a good birth control choice for you. Be sure to discuss birth control options with your doctor.
• QWhich other medications interact with VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Some medications can negatively interact with the active ingredient in VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film (nonoxynol 9) and reduce its effectiveness. These include certain types of topical (applied to skin) pain relievers (e.g., those containing salicylates) and vaginal sulfonamides. Be sure to wait 6 - 8 hours after intercourse before using douches or other vaginal cleansing medications, as these products may reduce the effectiveness of VCF.
• QWhat is VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film is a type of birth control known as a spermicide. The active ingredient (nonoxynol 9) works to prevent pregnancy by killing or harming sperm in the vagina, so that they cannot reach the uterus and fallopian tubes (where fertilization occurs). VCF is only around 85% effective at preventing pregnancy over the course of one year; it is therefore best to use VCF in combination with another birth control method (e.e., condoms).
• QWho should use VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film for birth control?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film is intended for use by women and teens of childbearing age who wish to prevent pregnancy. Users of all ages should understand how to correctly use this product, and should be aware that VCF is most effective when used along with additional birth control measures (e.g., condoms).
  
• QHow does VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film compare to other spermicides?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film differs from other spermicidal (sperm killing) products in two ways. The active ingredient in VCF is nonoxynol 9; other spermicides may contain octoxynol 9, or benzalkonium chloride. In addition, VCF delivers its active ingredient via a thin, paper-like film placed up against the cervix; other spermicides come in foam, gel, or suppository form. The effectiveness of all of spermicides are similar, however.
• QShould I let my doctor know I am using VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  Be sure to tell your doctor that you are using VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film. Your doctor can help you understand how to correctly use this product and avoid any negative drug interactions. Your doctor can also recommend other birth control methods that can be used in combination with VCF to further reduce your risk of pregnancy.
• QWhat are the risks of using VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film?

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  A Stacy Wiegman, PharmD , Pharmacy, answered

  VCF Vaginal Contraceptive Film is associated with some risks. Skin irritation can occur, which may increase the likelihood of contracting some sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV or gonorrhea. Using VCF -- or any spermicide -- alone is less effective than using it in combination with a condom or other compatible birth control method. (If your doctor has advised you to avoid pregnancy because of a medical condition, do not rely on VCF alone to avoid pregnancy.) In addition, allergic reactions to VCF are possible, as are other side effects. Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms while using VCF.