Is it safe for a woman to switch to contraceptive gel?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 27-year-old woman trying to switch from pills to a contraceptive gel because I keep forgetting my tablets, and the hormones make me feel nauseous. However, I am confused, in simple layman's terms, about how this gel actually works and whether it is reliable enough on its own. Does it affect periods, fertility, or vaginal health in the long term?

I have mild vaginal sensitivity, and I am worried that it might irritate the area. Also, does it protect against STIs, or do I still need to use condoms? Should I speak to a gynecologist before starting it, or is it okay to get it over the counter?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I will try to explain what this is and how it works. A contraceptive gel is a non-hormonal method (meaning it does not contain estrogen or progesterone) that works by maintaining an acidic vaginal pH (pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline something is).

Normally, the vagina naturally has an acidic pH (a healthy environment that protects against infections). During sexual arousal, the pH becomes slightly less acidic (more alkaline), which makes it easier for sperm to move.

Since the acidic environment is harmful to sperm, the gel keeps the vagina acidic so that sperm become immobilized (unable to move) and die, preventing them from reaching the egg.

The gel must be used before intercourse, ideally up to one hour beforehand. It should be applied before every act of intercourse. It does not work after intercourse and does not provide ongoing protection.

It can be used along with other contraceptive methods, such as barrier methods (condoms or diaphragms).

It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases STDs (infections spread through sex). For STD protection, you still need a barrier method such as condoms.

Its effectiveness is lower than hormonal methods, but with perfect use, it can be up to 93% effective.

Some people may experience mild burning or discomfort after using the gel, but this does not happen to everyone.

In many places, it requires a prescription, so it is best to speak with a gynecologist before starting it.

I hope this helps you.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.