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VCF contraceptive film (also known as contraceptive film or diaphragm) is a reasonable alternative when you do not want to reduce pleasure when using condoms or have side effects when taking medication. But is the diaphragm safe and is it really effective at preventing pregnancy? Let's find out through the article below.
1. What is the contraceptive film?
What is the contraceptive film or what is VCF? The VCF contraceptive film is an ultra-thin, soft, hormone-free square (5x5cm) diaphragm that is inserted into the vagina. Although VCF is popular with Western culture, it is still quite foreign to Vietnamese people. The VCF film, when inserted into the vagina, quickly dissolves and turns into a gel containing a spermicide called nonoxynol-9. This spermicide will help you avoid the risk of unwanted pregnancy.
Nonoxynol-9 is not only found in birth control films, but also in other types of birth control such as gels, creams, pills, suppositories and foams. Aside from the sole ingredient nonoxynol-9, the VCF diaphragm doesn't contain as many chemicals as other birth control methods. Therefore, using a contraceptive film is an option that you should consider when considering chemical-reduced birth control methods.
2. Advantages and disadvantages of contraceptive film
Advantages:
Non-hormonal: Non-hormonal diaphragms are suitable for people who are normally sensitive to contraceptives containing estrogen or progestin. Capable of killing sperm: The VCF film contains a spermicide that acts as a barrier to prevent sperm from reaching an egg. No loss of sensation c: Unlike condoms, VCF diaphragms do not reduce the excitement of both sexes. Ease of use: This spermicide is usually quite compact, making it easy to use and carry the birth control film with you. VCF is also quite clean because it dissolves right into your vagina. Commercially available: VCF diaphragms are usually widely available at drugstores, adult stores, or online. No effect on fertility: VCF contraceptive film does not affect your fertility in the future because it only works for 3 hours. Cons:
Regular use of a diaphragm containing nonoxynol-9 can irritate the vagina, increasing the risk of STIs. When used alone, this spermicide is not as effective as many other birth control methods. You need to put a new film on each time you have sex and have to wait 15 minutes for it to dissolve into a gel for it to start working. In particular, it does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
3. How to use VCF . contraceptive film
To properly apply the VCF diaphragm, follow these instructions:
Wash your hands, dry them, and open the diaphragm container carefully to avoid damaging the film. Stand, lie down or sit in a comfortable position to insert the diaphragm. You can squat, put your feet on a chair or lie on your back to insert the contraceptive film into the vagina. Fold the diaphragm in half and push it into the vagina to get as close to the cervix as possible. Your cervix will be at the top of your vagina and should feel quite similar to the tip of your nose. Wait at least 15 minutes for the entire film to dissolve in the vagina before having sex. You can insert the VCF patch before you intend to have sex, but it will only be effective for up to 3 hours after insertion. If you find it difficult to insert the birth control film into your vagina, you can ask your partner for help. VCF should not be used when you have an inflammation, vaginal infection, urinary tract infection, or sexually transmitted disease.
4. Is the contraceptive film safe?
Although it is considered an advanced method of contraception, is it safe to use contraceptive films for all women?
The process of conception will happen when sperm passes through the vagina, swims into the uterus and fertilizes an egg. When the contraceptive film turns into a gel 15 minutes after you put it in your vagina, it will cover your cervix, preventing sperm from getting deep inside and fertilizing an egg.
VCF diaphragms have been on the market for over 20 years and have been tested through numerous studies. The spermicide contained in the VCF contraceptive film has been confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to be safe and effective in preventing pregnancy.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has listed the effectiveness for spermicidal methods with a failure rate of 18%, that is, up to 82% of success rates are performed. on women using this method. The effectiveness rate for occasional spermicide users is 78%. So 22 out of every 100 women will get pregnant if they fall into this category.
VCF film will be most effective for preventing pregnancy when used with another form of backup birth control such as male or female condoms, oral contraceptives, etc. Otherwise, if not If you use the VCF diaphragm correctly, you can still get pregnant.
You should not abuse the diaphragm because this product can irritate the vagina or penis causing a burning sensation. VCF films can also expose you to yeast infections or increase your risk of urinary tract infections. In rare cases, VCF can cause an allergic reaction.
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