Film is a thin, jelly-like coating that you insert into your vagina. You should know that suppositories and film are not effective against pregnancy until at least 15 minutes after insertion. Once the 15-minute window has passed, the spermicidal effect is good for up to one hour. If you decide to have intercourse after that one hour, you must insert more film or another suppository and wait another 15 minutes to have sex. If you choose to use spermicides as a form of birth control, you really should use condoms, as well.
Spermicides are relatively inexpensive and are available in almost all drug stores.
They are also quite safe. Occasionally, people can be allergic to the chemicals in spermicides, so if you have a reaction, talk to your health care provider and choose another birth control method. Be prepared for liquid or foam leaking out of the vagina after sex. Send this page to a friend. Please see your healthcare provider as needed.