A TWIST ON A CLASSIC
The male condom may well be the most well known of all contraceptive methods but not wanting to be outdone, women got their own too. The male condom’s simple “just slip it on” functionality is matched by the female condom’s “just slip it in” technique and the results are identical. Regardless who is wearing the condom; there is a lubricated, thin polyurethane sheath that creates a barrier between where the sperm comes from and where it wants to go. The most important thing is that you use a condom every time you have sex.
HOW TO
As we said above, the male and female condoms work in exactly the same way, the only difference is, who is putting it on, or in. Put the female condom into the vagina right before sex. Take the sheath and find the closed end’s ring which hold the female condom in place. Squeeze this flexible ring together and insert the condom as you would a tampon, as far as you can up to your cervix. The closed end of the female condom covers the cervix and the open end should hang about an inch outside your vagina. Once you’re finished, simply grab the open end, twist to close, pull it out gently, and don’t spill anything. Use it only once and then throw it away.
PROS / CONS
- It can be used on demand
- It can easily carried with you
- It isn’t affected by other medications
- It can be used when breastfeeding
- Hormone free
- It protects effectively against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- It interrupts sex
- Using it can take practice
- Not as effective as male latex condoms
- It can tear if not used properly
- It may lead to irritation or allergic reactions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
It provides them with an additional choice to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV and unintended pregnancies. It is not intended as a replacement for the male condom but rather as an additional option for both women and men.
A female condom is similar in length to a male condom. However, it is wider than a male condom as, once inserted, it lines the walls of the vagina and allows for movement of the penis inside the sheath. It also provides extra protection by covering part of the external female genitalia and the base of the penis.
The female condom does not interfere with menstruation and can therefore be used. However, the female condom should be inserted just before intercourse and removed soon after.
You can use the female condom when you are pregnant since the condom doesn’t move beyond the cervix. You can also use female condom after recently giving birth.
The female condom can be inserted in advance of sexual intercourse and does not need to be taken out immediately after intercourse.
