Meet Phexxi: The New Non-Hormonal Birth Control That’s Inserted Vaginally

For many of us who have struggled with the side effects of birth control, a non-hormonal, non-invasive method seems like a dream. Recently, a new form of birth control has entered the market, and it’s just that: non-hormonal, non-invasive, and totally controlled by the user. Meet Phexxi, non-hormonal birth control that is inserted vaginally. As exciting as this is, it’s important to do your own research and know that no single method is going to work best for every person, since all vagina owners are different. 

So how does Phexxi work? According to their website, it’s a gel that you insert like a tampon, which keeps the pH level of your vagina in its normal range, preventing sperm from surviving long enough to reach the egg. Here’s how they describe it: “When semen enters the vagina, it raises the vagina’s pH levels from its typical range of 3.5-4.5 to a range of 6.5-7.2. This increase in pH is what allows sperm to move and swim up the reproductive canal, which is how it reaches the egg and causes pregnancy. Once inserted into the vagina, Phexxi maintains a normal vaginal pH and works to keep vaginal pH in the 3.5-4.5 range, which lowers sperm mobility. When sperm can’t swim, it lowers the chance of them reaching the egg.” To use Phexxi, you insert the gel vaginally up to one hour before engaging in sex with a penis, and you’re good to go. One noteworthy feature is when you are not engaging in penis-in-vagina sex, there is no upkeep or management, meaning you can cross off that daily pill reminder or the notification to change your vaginal ring.

In terms of effectiveness, Phexxi measures up fairly well to the other personal use methods. With perfect usage, Phexxi is reported to be 93% effective, and for an average user, it is reported to be 86% effective. Compared to other personal use methods, Phexxi is less effective than the pill, patch, or ring, but more effective than condoms, spermicide, or the diaphragm, according to Planned Parenthood’s website. However, all of these methods are less effective than the IUD or the implant, which are placed by medical professionals and do not incur user error. 

It’s important to note that effectiveness is not the entire puzzle though; a key piece for many is the side effects that come along with different methods. A non-hormonal method like Plexxi would eliminate negative hormonal side effects, and maybe a valuable option for those who cannot use hormonal methods. Plexxi does have its own side effects though, which are similar to any vaginally inserted product, namely higher risk for vaginal and urinary tract infections. Most importantly, while Phexxi protects against pregnancy, it does not protect against STIs and STDs, so consider doubling up with a barrier method.

If you are considering checking out Plexxi, we encourage you to do your own research and talk to a gynecologist about your options. Birth control is different for everybody and every lifestyle, and oftentimes there is no single perfect option to choose. It should serve to make your life easier and less stressful, so keep that in mind during your search.

By Sydney Sullivan