Vaginal tablets: mechanism of action, advantages and disadvantages
Vaginal tablets are non-hormonalcontraceptives containing active substances that damage and destroy the sperm membrane, which leads to their death. Such active substances are called spermicides, their role in the composition of vaginal tablets is performed by nonoxynol or benzalkonium. These substances have a detrimental effect on sperm, and, in addition, form a very thin film on the walls of the vaginal mucosa. This film not only performs a protective function, but also forms a thickening of mucus in the cervical canal, which also significantly reduces the activity of sperm. This is how a special barrier is created that prevents sperm from entering the uterus. That is why non-hormonal contraceptive pills are barrier contraceptives. Vaginal contraceptives have many advantages. They have an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect, protect against various sexually transmitted diseases. Vaginal tablets can be used in women with serious diseases such as uterine fibroids, which contraindicate hormonal contraceptives. They can also be used by women after childbirth and during breastfeeding, as well as after an abortion and when it is impossible to use an intrauterine device. In addition, these drugs have virtually no side effects. Thus, with many advantages, non-hormonal contraceptive pills are very convenient, effective and safe contraceptives for many women. The disadvantages of non-hormonal contraceptives include the following:
- they are not recommended for daily use, otherwise the dysbacteriosis may occur in the vagina;
- in rare cases, some side effects are possible, namely, an allergic reaction to spermicides and skin irritation;
- these drugs should be used immediately before intercourse;
- It is impossible to take some time water procedures.
Types of nonhormonal birth control pills
Active ingredient - benzalkonium chloride
- «Pharmatex».
This contraceptive is considered the mostwidespread and is very popular among women. This drug contains benzalkonium chloride as an active substance. This drug is available not only in the form of vaginal tablets, but also in suppositories, cream, vaginal balls and tampons. "Pharmatex" acts effectively for 3 hours. The drug has antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, due to which this remedy not only prevents pregnancy, but also protects against various sexually transmitted diseases. It has a pronounced effect against chlamydia, gonococci, candida, trichomonas, herpes virus and various fungi. The drug "Pharmatex" does not penetrate into the blood and milk of nursing mothers, does not affect the vaginal microflora, does not disrupt the hormonal background and menstrual cycle of women.
- "Gynecotex".
This drug is similar in its action"Pharmatex". It has a spermicidal, antifungal and antiseptic effect, thereby protecting a woman from the risk of contracting various sexually transmitted infections. "Gynecotex" is effective for 4 hours. It does not have any effect on the vaginal microflora and hormonal background of a woman, but has some contraindications: inflammation of the vagina or colpitis, hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, irritation of the mucous membrane of the vagina and uterus. "Gynecotex" should be combined with the use of an IUD or a vaginal diaphragm. This will increase its effectiveness. It is not recommended to use soap douching after intercourse, since soap can destroy the active substance contained in the drug, thereby reducing its contraceptive effect.
- "Traceptin".
It is an effective contraceptive drug,preventing unwanted pregnancy. It contains the active substance benzalkonium chloride, which has a spermicidal and disinfectant effect. It has side effects that can manifest themselves in the form of itching and burning in the vagina. In addition, this drug cannot be used in the presence of cervical erosion and colpitis. The active substance is nonoxynol
- "Patentex Oval".
The active ingredient in this drug isThe substance contains nonoxynol. This contraceptive causes death of spermatozoa and has antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal effects. Does not cause allergic reactions.
- «Conceptrol».
The active ingredient in this drug isThe substance also contains nonoxynol, which has a detrimental effect on sperm and protects against various infections and sexually transmitted diseases. After the introduction of "Conceptrol", you cannot perform vaginal hygiene for six hours.
General rules for the use of vaginal tablets
The manufacturer's instructions always includerecommendations for the use of a specific drug. Basically, non-hormonal contraceptive pills are inserted deep into the vagina 10-15 minutes before intercourse. The package may include an applicator for easy insertion of the pill. Most manufacturers claim that the effect of the contraceptive drug can last more than 40 minutes, but practice shows otherwise. Therefore, it is very important to insert a new vaginal tablet before each sexual intercourse, even before repeated sexual intercourse. Before using vaginal tablets, you should pay attention to the recommendations for the correct use of the contraceptive given by the manufacturer. Quite often, when using them, water procedures with intimate hygiene products are prohibited for some time before and after intercourse. If intercourse does not begin within 2 hours after inserting the pill, then it is necessary to enter a new dose of the drug. This fact is the main disadvantage of using this method of contraception. Patients claim that they are thus spared from unexpected sex. With this method of contraception, you need to plan sexual intercourse, and this is not always possible. General contraindications to the use of non-hormonal vaginal tablets are: inflammation of the vagina, hypersensitivity to the drug, erosion of the cervix and diseases of the genitourinary system. Some vaginal tablets can cause a burning sensation in the vagina when used. Many manufacturers claim that this is normal, although they recommend stopping further use of the drug in such cases. Before using any contraceptives, you should definitely consult with your gynecologist, who will help you not only choose the right product taking into account the individual characteristics of the body, but also get recommendations for its use.
