| Out of 100 women using Phexxi | |
| Typical use: 14 people become pregnant |  |
| Perfect use: 7 people become pregnant |  |
How do you use Phexxi?
When you get a prescription for Phexxi, it will come in two parts: a plunger and a pre-filled applicator. You will need to insert the plunger into the pre-filled applicator; once the applicator and plunger are put together, you will insert the applicator into your vagina, just as you would a tampon. Once you have inserted the gel into your vagina, remove the applicator and discard it. If you notice gel on the outside of the applicator after you remove it, don’t sweat it; you are still protected as long as you push the plunger into the applicator.
When should I use Phexxi?
Phexxi will only protect you against pregnancy if you use it before you have sex and within 1 hour of application. Each applicator is single-use, meaning every time you have sex, you will need to reapply Phexxi, no matter if you have penis-in-vagina (PIV) sex twice in 1 hour. For example, if you inserted your Phexxi at 3:02pm, and you had sex at 3:20pm, and you plan on having sex again at 3:45pm, you must use another dose of Phexxi before you have sex again at 3:45pm. It is very important that you read the instructions that will come with the Phexxi to ensure that you are using it correctly. This method may sound familiar to you, as a spermicide is used similarly (another form of contraception). Although how the medication is used sounds similar, Phexxi is not a spermicide.
How does the Phexxi work?
Once it is correctly inserted into the vagina, Phexxi gets to work by changing the pH in your vagina so that sperm is not able to fertilize (which helps form a fetus) the egg.
Can I use Phexxi with other birth control methods?
Yes, Phexxi can be used with condoms, dental dams, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, patches, and most forms of hormonal birth control pills. Using Phexxi with other methods of birth control provides you with better protection against pregnancy. Phexxi cannot help protect against any sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so it’s always a good idea to use a condom.
Are there any birth control methods that I can’t use Phexxi with?
Yes, Phexxi cannot be used with birth control rings such as the NuvaRing or Annovera.
Who can use Phexxi?
Almost everyone can use Phexxi, including people who recently had an abortion, miscarriage, or gave birth, as long as they are cleared by their health care provider (HCP) to resume PIV sex. People who are breastfeeding may also use Phexxi to prevent pregnancy. Phexxi can also be used with common medications used to treat vaginal infections, but it’s important to check with your HCP first.
Are there any side effects from Phexxi?
Phexxi rarely causes side effects but some of the possible side effects include vulvar or vaginal burning or itching, or rarely, urinary tract infections. Check in with your HCP if you are having any symptoms for an evaluation.
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