lissa asked
My husband and I had intercourse only after 5 min of putting in a VCF film. Will I still be protected?
At a glance
- Vaginal contraceptive films containing the spermacide nonoxynol-9 should be inserted 15 minutes before intercourse.
Answer
Vaginal contraceptive films contain the spermicidal ingredient nonoxynol-9, which works by immobilizing sperm (i.e. stops them from moving).
They also work by blocking the cervix, preventing sperm from being able to fertilize an egg. Contrary to common belief, nonoxynol-9 doesn't kill sperm.
How To Use Vaginal Contraceptive Films
The manufacturer of VCF has detailed instructions on how to insert the films, which can be found here: VCF insertion instructions.
An important point regarding the use of VCF films is that they must be inserted high into the vagina (by the cervix) at least 15 minutes before intercourse. Once the film has been dissolved in the vagina, it works for up to 3 hours.
How Effective Are Vaginal Contraceptive Films?
Studies have reported a range of efficacy rates, but overall, when vaginal contraceptive films are used alone (i.e. with no other form of contraception), they are not as effective as other contraceptive forms (e.g. condoms and birth control pills).
Reported failure rates of contraceptive films range from 6% to 29%, with an increased risk of failure if they aren't used as directed (e.g. if they aren't used at least 15 minutes before intercourse).
Not only are vaginal contraceptive films not as effective as many other forms of contraception, but they also:
- May increase their risk of urinary tract infections.
- May increase the risk of HIV infection.
The increase in the risk of UTIs and HIV infections are thought to be due to repeated use of nonoxynol-9 causing genital lesions and a disruption of the mucosa of the cervix.
Additional Information
In your situation, having only inserted a vaginal contraceptive film 5 minutes prior to intercourse, it may not have had enough time to dissolve in the vagina. This may have made it less effective.
As you may be an increased risk of unplanned pregnancy, you may want to consider emergency contraception. Be sure to speak with your doctor regarding your options.
References
- The effects of three nonoxynol-9 preparations on vaginal flora and epithelium. PubMed
- Spermicide used alone for contraception. PubMed
- A randomized trial of the contraceptive efficacy, acceptability, and safety of C31G and nonoxynol-9 spermicidal gels. PubMed
- The effects of three nonoxynol-9 preparations on vaginal flora and epithelium. PubMed
- Contraceptive Effectiveness and Safety of Five Nonoxynol-9 Spermicides: A Randomized Trial. Obstetrics and Gynecology
- How To Use The Vaginal Contraceptive Film. VCF
- A phase I comparative study of three contraceptive vaginal films containing nonoxynol-9. Postcoital testing and colposcopy. PubMed
- Spermacide. Planned Parenthood
