Your Questions

Phexxi (pronounced FEX-ee, like sexy!) is a non-hormonal prescription vaginal gel used to prevent pregnancy in females who choose to use an on-demand method of birth control. Phexxi is only effective when used immediately before (or up to 1 hour before) each act of vaginal sex. Phexxi is not effective when used after vaginal sex.

Phexxi is hormone free (non-hormonal).

Phexxi has 3 active ingredients: lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate.

No, Phexxi is not a spermicide.

Spermicide kills sperm and Phexxi maintains vaginal pH to immobilize sperm—also spermicide often contains nonoxynol-9, a chemical detergent which many women find irritating. Phexxi contains non-toxic, food-grade ingredients!

Phexxi can be used for as long (or as short!) as you want to avoid pregnancy. Because Phexxi is applied before each time you have intercourse, it is an easily reversible birth control option that can keep your plans for the future on schedule.

The contraceptive effects of Phexxi are temporary and easily reversible, making it an option for women who are concerned about future fertility.

Yes, Phexxi is FDA approved and available only by prescription from a healthcare provider.

You can get a co-pay card directly on the Phexxi website.

Phexxi is a contraceptive gel that is inserted into your vagina with an applicator, much like a tampon. The full contents of 1 pre-filled applicator of Phexxi should be placed in your vagina immediately before or up to 1 hour before each act of vaginal sex. For more information, watch this video or download Instructions for Use.

There is no need to wait! Phexxi works immediately upon application and lasts for up to 1 hour after application for each act of vaginal intercourse. Remember that you will need to apply Phexxi before each act of intercourse.

Phexxi is a single-use product that works immediately and lasts up to 1 hour and provides protection for 1 act of vaginal sex. An additional dose of Phexxi must be applied for every act of vaginal sex, in the same way a new condom would be used. So, if you were to have sexual intercourse twice within an hour, you would need to apply Phexxi 2 times.

Because Phexxi is used only when you need it, you may begin using Phexxi during any part of your menstrual cycle. You may also use Phexxi as soon as it is safe to resume vaginal intercourse after childbirth, abortion, or miscarriage.

And no—you don’t need to use Phexxi every day. You only use Phexxi when you are ready to have vaginal sex!

No. Insertion of Phexxi is similar to inserting a tampon. For more information, watch this video or download Instructions for Use.

Phexxi doesn’t have to be used alone. You can use it with other contraceptives including condoms or diaphragms, but not with a vaginal ring.

Douching is not recommended while using Phexxi, as it may affect how well it works. Consult with a healthcare provider before douching when using Phexxi.

Phexxi is designed to remain in place in the vagina, so it will not suddenly leak out of your vagina during or after vaginal intercourse. It will gradually leave your body after intercourse in a mix of vaginal fluid and semen.

Phexxi works to maintain vaginal pH, which reduces sperm mobility, lowering the chance of sperm reaching the egg. Phexxi is designed to stay in place in the vagina during intercourse.

Phexxi does not protect you against any sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

There have been a few cases of urinary bladder infection and kidney infection reported in clinical studies. One of the cases was serious. Avoid Phexxi if you have had repeated urinary tract infections or other urinary tract problems.

The most common side effects were vaginal burning, vaginal itching, vaginal yeast infection, urinary tract infection, vaginal area discomfort, bacterial vaginosis, and vaginal discharge. Women also reported genital discomfort, pain while urinating, and vaginal pain. Some male partners reported genital discomfort (including burning, itching, and pain).

Among women who used Phexxi in studies, 1.6% discontinued the clinical trials because of an adverse reaction. The most common adverse reactions leading to study discontinuation were vaginal burning sensation (0.7%), vaginal itching (0.1%), and vaginal discomfort (0.1%).

Phexxi may cause an allergic reaction. If you experience any reactions, including flushing, skin irritation, shortness of breath, low blood pressure, temporary loss of consciousness, or severe allergic reaction, discontinue Phexxi immediately and seek medical attention. Avoid Phexxi if you or your partner is allergic to any of the ingredients in Phexxi.

Each box of Phexxi contains 12 foil pouches with pre-filled, single-dose applicators. Each applicator is about 4 inches long and contains 1 dose of Phexxi. Each applicator is intended for single use before intercourse. Note: unopened and unused Phexxi should be stored in the original foil pack at room temperature in a dry place.

Phexxi is manufactured by Evofem Biosciences, a pharmaceutical company located in San Diego, CA. The company’s mission is to improve the lives of women by discovering and developing innovative healthcare solutions that put women first, and by giving women everywhere control of their sexual and reproductive health.