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Female condoms provide an effective and safe means of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Condoms are constructed of polyurethane material and come prelubricated; once used they should be discarded.
For optimal use, carefully open the package by tearing at its notch. Next, grab the inner ring between thumb and second finger of both hands and squeeze so it becomes long and narrow.
What is a female condom?
Female condoms (also referred to as internal use condoms) are latex pouches worn inside the vagina and used by women to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). By acting as an obstruction for sperm from reaching an egg and entering their bodies, female condoms help ensure pregnancy cannot take place or sexually transmitted infections can enter their systems. Furthermore, some pouches contain lubricant which enhances sexual satisfaction for enhanced sexual pleasure.
At present, two FDA-approved female condoms - FC1 and FC2 - are on the market. Constructed of natural rubber latex, nitrile or polyurethane like male condoms, they come in different sizes for various vaginas with inner rings or foam discs fitting securely into the cervix during intercourse, while their outer rings rest comfortably outside of vulvae.
To insert a female condom, first pull open its packaging and notch at its rim with your thumb and forefinger. Gently squeeze its sheath until it becomes long and narrow before inserting its inner ring into the back of your vagina, just up against your cervix, until its outside ring touches it completely.
For optimal results, insert the condom at least eight hours prior to sexual activity and add any desired lubricants (for optimal use, one out of every 10 women will still become pregnant with proper use of condoms). Most can achieve 95 percent effectiveness; however, some women (around two of 10) will still become pregnant by misusing them.
How to insert a female condom
Female condoms (FC2) are thin lubricated pouches worn inside the vagina prior to engaging in sexual activity, helping prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases like HIV and HPV (which causes cervical cancer). FC2s give women more control and provide an ideal alternative for those allergic to latex such as latex allergies; they can be used with either oil- or water-based lubricants for maximum effectiveness.
To use, squeeze together the sides of the inner ring at its closed end like you were inserting a tampon before sliding it in as far as it will go - up to your cervix (or anus, depending on which way it goes) up until its bottom edge - making sure the outer ring remains outside during intercourse. It is crucial that you use an appropriate size condom; beginners may benefit from starting off smaller initially.
If you prefer water-based lubricant, apply some to the inner ring before inserting the female condom. Lubrication can help stop it from moving during sex; for those using oil-based lubricants beware not to get any on the outer ring as this could break or tear it. After use remove by twisting large ring to keep semen from leaking out then throw into trash can, not toilet.
How to remove a female condom
Female condoms provide protection from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections when used properly, making them simpler than their male counterparts to use, especially when combined with lubricant.
Before using, be sure to verify its expiration date and inspect for signs of tear or wear. Carefully open the package without using your teeth or fingernails, lubricate both inner (labia minora) and outer rings with an oil- or water-based lubricant prior to insertion, during intercourse and removal to help avoid tears or slippage.
To insert a female condom, squeeze its inner ring at its closed end like you would with a tampon. If additional lubrication is desired, add more to both rings before inserting. When inserting, make sure that the inner ring goes all the way into your vagina up to your cervix while its outer ring hangs about an inch outside of your body during intercourse.
Some women may experience discomfort during insertion or a burning sensation, similar to when inserting a latex condom. Therefore, it's essential that both partners understand why and when using female condoms so as to minimize any confusion between you both and what to expect. Some women report an increase in sexual pleasure when using one; female condoms should ideally be used up to 8 hours before engaging in sexual activity for maximum effectiveness.
Where to buy female condoms
Femidom (Internal Condom), more commonly referred to as female condom, is an effective birth control option that offers women protection from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections with just one device. Similar to its male counterpart, this device must be inserted by women themselves and covers only their vulva instead of covering both penis.
These devices are composed of thin yet strong plastic known as polyurethane or rubber called nitrile and feature flexible rings on both ends; one goes inside your vagina and sits over your uterus while the other rests outside and covers labia.
Female condoms can be easily obtained at most drugstores and family planning clinics without needing a valid prescription, though it will cost slightly more than an equivalent male model.
Prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as HIV, by properly using female condoms. Women should insert them 8 hours prior to sexual intercourse and ensure the ring remains in its position during sex. For couples that find inserting the condom interferes with or makes sexual intimacy uncomfortable, using lubricant may help; additionally sperm can still find its way into vagina even with protection in place; in such an instance emergency contraception should be used.