The Disadvantages And Advantages Of Vaginal Contraceptive Film
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Similar to the way Listerine breath strips will melt in your mouth, a vaginal contraceptive film (VCF) does the same thing when placed over the cervix. Unlike a sponge or a diaphragm, the vaginal contraceptive film does not have to be removed. Unfortunately, as many as 29% of women that rely on this form of contraceptive will get pregnant.
That said, the vaginal contraceptive film can still be of some use when combined with other birth control methods. As an example, it can be used in conjunction with condoms as well as diaphragms. If your main concern is preventing pregnancy, this added measure may be of some use.
Aside from doing very little on its own to prevent pregnancy, the vaginal contraceptive film does not prevent the transmission of STD's. Even though the film covers the cervix, it still leaves most of the genital tract exposed to any infections your partner may be carrying. Although some websites indicate that the vaginal contraceptive film can prevent STD's, they also wind up explaining later on that it is not effective against HIV, and many other illnesses. Finally, the vaginal contraceptive film contains a spermicide known as nonoxynol-9.
Various research projects indicate that this particular spermicide can increase the chances of developing an active AIDS complex should you become infected with HIV. In addition, if you are allergic to this spermicide, or experience vaginal irritation, it can leave you susceptible to other infections. Despite all of the shortcomings of the vaginal contraceptive film, it does have some strong points. Among other things, it is one form of birth control that is very hard to detect. Unlike certain medications, it also does not cause changes to vaginal secretions, or alter the normal body functioning. Similar to many other forms of over the counter birth control, if you get pregnant while using the vaginal contraceptive film, chances are it will not do any harm to your baby. Therefore, if you decide to proceed with the unplanned pregnancy, you will have some peace of mind knowing that your baby has every chance of being healthy and normal. That said, if you find out you are pregnant, you should let your gynecologist know that you were using this form of contraception. While condoms and femidons are the most reliable way to prevent the transmission of STD's, they can go a long way to making sexual intimacy a very impersonal matter. For couples that want to have as much genital contact as possible, a vaginal contraceptive film combined with a diaphragm may be the best choice. All things considered, if you are in a stable relationship, and know there is no risk of catching or transmitting an STD, you may want to using a vaginal contraceptive film. Almost 30% of women that use a vaginal contraceptive film will wind up getting pregnant. While this is one of the least effective forms of birth control, many couples feel that it has its advantages. Depending on your needs and personal comfort, this may or may not be a suitable contraceptive for you.
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