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Home > Safer Sex > VCF, Foam, Jelly, and Inserts Besides being applied directly to barrier methods
of contraception, spermicide, mostly in
the form of non-oxynol 9, also comes in other highly concentrated forms.
People who are allergic to spermicide should not use these products.
It is important to remember that these are only methods of contraception
and do not protect against any STIs by themselves. Besides abstinence,
the most effective method of contraception and protection from STIs
is the use of a barrier method in addition to one of the following back-up
methods. Some of these methods require time inside the body before they
become effective, but other forms of foreplay can continue during this
time. Vaginal Contraceptive Film, or VCF,
is a high concentration of spermicide in the form of a thin, square
film. To use VCF, fold the film in half twice, so it is in quarters
in a smaller square. Fold down the corners since they may be slightly
sharp, and insert the VCF in the vagina as far as possible, preferably
resting against the cervix, at the top of the vagina. There, the film
will melt and coat the cervix and vaginal walls with spermicide. VCF
must be inserted at least 15 minutes and no more than 45 minutes before
intercourse. If the VCF starts irritating the user, remove immediately. Contraceptive foams, such as Delfen,
contain a high concentration of spermicide. To use them, first thoroughly
shake the can. Place the applicator on the tip of the nozzle and push/tilt
the nozzle gently. The foam will quickly fill the applicator. Insert
the applicator in the vagina and push the foam into the vagina. The
foam will cling to the walls of the vagina and the cervix. The foam
should be inserted no more than 10-15 minutes before intercourse, because
it will melt out of the body. More foam should be re-inserted before
each act of intercourse. Spermicidal jelly, sold under the brand name
Gynol II, is another form of concentrated spermicide. It is most
commonly used with diaphragms and cervical caps, but can also be used
with condoms. While it is effective to apply spermicidal jelly to condoms,
which are not already treated with spermicide, it is better to simply
use condoms with spermicidal lubricant already applied to the condom. Contraceptive inserts, sold under the brand
name Concepterol, are another method of using highly concentrated
spermicide for contraception. Each insert is approximately a half-inch
long and less than a quarter inch in diameter. The insert should be
inserted as far up in the vagina as possible. Wait ten minutes after
insertion before intercourse to assure that the insert has dissolved.
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