Amphora, produced by Evofem Inc., was approved by the FDA in 2004 as a personal lubricant.
Since then, various testings on Amphora have showed promise as a non-hormonal contraceptive gel through its ability to immobilize sperm. It has potential to be effective for up to 8-10 hours prior to intercourse and may even prevent certain sexually transmitted infections.
The Amphora contraceptive clinical trial began in April 2011 and will be completed in 2014. The trial is testing Amphora's efficacy in preventing pregnancy compared to the FDA-approved vaginal gel, Conceptrol®.
Amphora gel lines the vaginal canal, and uses lactic acid to help maintain the vagina's natural acidic pH level. By balancing the natural pH level, Amphora creates an opposing environment for sperm, inhibiting the ability to migrate to the cervix, and thus preventing conception.
Upon successful completion of the trial in 2014, Evofem Inc. plans to introduce Amphora as a non-hormonal, latex-free and inexpensive over-the-counter contraceptive for women.
Sexual health expert Dr. Lisa Oldson, MD, reveals the development of the new contraceptive, its effectiveness and if the birth control option is a safe choice for you.
Amphora: New Vaginal Gel to Prevent Pregnancy
Amphora is a non-hormonal contraceptive gel with the ability to immobilize sperm. But is it right for you?
Additional Info
- Segment Number: 2
- Audio File: staying_well/1336sw5b.mp3
- Featured Speaker: Lisa Oldson, MD
- Guest Website: Sexual Health
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Guest Bio:
Lisa Oldson, MD, has been practicing internal medicine at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago since 1998. She earned her BS at the University of Illinois, and her MD from Rush Medical College. She is board certified in Internal Medicine.
Dr. Oldson served on the Leadership Council and Joint Operations Leadership Committee of Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group, a primary care multi-specialty group of 125 physicians and other providers and has served as the Medical Director of their Call Center.
Dr. Oldson served on the Medical Advisory Board for the Discovery Institute of Medical Education and is a former board member of the Illinois Science Council.
In 2009, Dr. Oldson was recruited by Analyte Health, and was later named their Medical Director. She strives to improve sexual health through education and a modern online approach to medical services. - Length (mins): 10
- Waiver Received: Yes
- Host: Melanie Cole, MS
Published in
Staying Well