How Does a Vaginal Contraceptive Film Work?

Contraception

Vaginal Contraceptive Film (VCF) is a thin square of material that dissolves quickly when it comes in contact with vaginal fluids. It has a pregnancy prevention rate of about 71 percent, according to the Mayo Clinic. The VCF should be put into place between 15 minutes and one hour before sexual activity. After three hours have passed, VCF is no longer effective. The gel will have dissolved and left the body.

Inserting VCF

According to Apothecus Pharmaceutical Corporation (APC), the makers of VCF, the film needs to be inserted into the vagina. This can be done in three easy steps. First, fold the film in half. Then, place the film over the finger tip. Slide the finger into the vagina until the cervix is reached. As long as the VCF is deep into the vagina and on the cervix the insertion is complete, according to APC.

Spermicide

The thin film becomes a gel 15 minutes after insertion. This gel contains nonoxynol-9, a spermicide. The gel forms a protective spermicidal barrier between the vaginal opening and the cervix. According to Mayo Clinic, spermicides prevent pregnancy by killing sperm as it comes in contact with them. VCF is safe for multiple uses per day.