Everything You Should Know About Birth Control Gel

There’s a new birth control gel available in the market approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which has some notable advantages. This non-hormonal vaginal gel, available by prescription, helps prevent pregnancy and is inserted using a pre-filled applicator similar to a tampon. Once you insert the applicator into the vagina, push the gel in and remove the applicator. The contraceptive gel can be put up to an hour in advance. It is effective for an hour after you put it in but needs a new applicator, each time you have sex. It is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy.

Let’s learn about the birth control gels in detail.

 

Birth Control Gel Versus Spermicide?

A more recent method of contraception that has FDA approval is birth control gel. Birth control gel differs from spermicide although both are dissolvable inserts that prevent pregnancy. Birth control gel and spermicide act by limiting the sperm’s ability to move and stay alive inside your vagina. However, they operate in a distinct way. Spermicide functions as a detergent, breaking down the sperm's outer membrane to eliminate it while birth control gel alters your vagina's acidity, which modifies sperm.

 

Generally, your vagina is acidic. During intercourse, the birth control gel make sure that it remains that way. This is helpful because sperm do not thrive in an acidic environment. So, the increased acidity in your vagina hinder sperm from swimming as they normally would. Consequently, vaginal contraceptive gel reduces your chances of becoming pregnant.

 

 

 

What Does Birth Control Gel Contains?

 

There are no hormones in the vaginal contraceptive gel. Additionally, it lacks the common spermicide. Instead, there are three active components in this gel:

• Lactic acid
• Citric acid
• Potassium bitartrate

Inserted into vagina, the acids in the vaginal gel negate the effect of semen by keeping the vagina acidic. An acidic environment immobilizes sperm so they can’t move toward your uterus to fertilize an egg.

 

Pros & Cons of Using Birth Control Gel

Every birth control method has advantages and disadvantages.

 

• Most women tolerate it well, and it's safe and simple to use.
• You can use it whenever you want, just like condoms to prevent pregnancy.
• There are no hormones in it.
• Use it when necessary. It leaves your body quickly.
• If you wish to become pregnant, you can just stop using it.

 

The following are some possible drawbacks of vaginal contraceptive gel use:

 

• It is less effective at preventing pregnancy.
• It does not give protection against sexually transmitted infections will be compromised.
• It doesn't affect last long, and you have to use it each time before having sex.
• It needs a prescription and may not be covered by insurance.
• Some user may cause burning or itching in the vagina.
• There’s is a possibility of Urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal yeast or bacterial infections, or unusual discharge are all possible.
• This gel should not be used if you frequently acquire UTIs.
• Sexual partner might notice burning, itching, or pain on his penis.

 

Which Birth Control Measure is Best Suited for You?
 

 

• Your age and medical history
• Your reproductive goals, desired number of children you hope to have and the timing of your pregnancy
• Relationship factors, including partner preferences, sexual frequency, number of sexual partners, and marital status
• Faith or religious convictions
• Variations among birth control techniques, including cost, side effects, effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, and ability to avoid sexually transmitted infections.

 

Hence, birth control gel contains prefilled applicators that is no more difficult to use than putting in a tampon, as long as it's used at the right time. There are no hormones and spermicides in it. Always remember that your health, your desire to have children now or in the future, and your need to avoid sexually transmitted illnesses will all influence the type of birth control you use. You can discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the best birth control measure suited for you.

 

If you have any questions related to birth control gels or other birth control measures, you can check with our gynecologist at Ask a doctor, 24x7.