Encare contraceptive gel is a spermicide designed to prevent pregnancy. Although this spermicide can be effective, especially when combined with the use of a condom or diaphragm, there are potential side effects. Despite Encare being available over-the-counter without a prescription, women interested in using Encare for pregnancy prevention should discuss these side effects with their doctor or health care professional when determining if Encare is right for them.
Temporary Side Effects
The most common side effects of Encare are temporary and should go away on their own without intervention or treatment. These side effects include vaginal odor and vaginal dryness, according to Drugs.com. If you experience these or other side effects that do not go away on their own or are particularly bothersome, call your doctor.
Potentially Serious Side Effects
Some side effects that occur when using Encare may indicate a serious medical condition, so people experiencing these side effects should meet with a doctor to be checked out. These side effects that may affect both males and females include skin rashes, redness, irritation or itching that does not subside on its own, according to Drugs.com. In addition, some potentially serious side effects affecting just the female include an increase frequency of urination, pain in the bladder area, cloudy or bloody urine, unusually thick white discharge, vaginal irritation or dryness or redness of the vaginal area.
Serious Side Effects
Although rare, there are serious side effects that can occur when using Encare. These side effects include a sunburn-like rash that is followed by skin peeling, muscle aches, fever, dizziness, confusion, chills, and an unusual redness of the inside of the nose, throat, mouth, eyelids or vagina, according to Drugs.com. In addition, the Physicians' Desktop Reference also points out that allergic reactions to Encare may occur. The signs of an allergic reaction may include itching, hives, chest tightness, trouble breathing and swelling in the face, hands, mouth or throat. If you experience any of these side effects after using Encare, call your doctor immediately.
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