The female condom is similar to the male condom. It is a thin rubber or latex sheath that creates a barrier for bodily fluids (ejaculation/discharge). The difference between the male and female condom is that the female condom is inserted in the vagina, as opposed to covering the penis.
No Woman Left Behind
How It Works
The condom is inserted into the vagina and it covers the opening of the cervix as well as the walls and opening of the vagina. The condom blocks sperm from entering the vagina and going through the cervix. It also protects both the vagina and the penis from STIs (if present) from each partner.
When To Use
A condom should be used with every sex act as condoms are the only contraceptive method that can protect you from Sexually Transmitted Infections including HIV/AIDS.
Effectiveness
The Female Condom is 79 percent effective. This means that 79 of every 100 women who use female condoms, over the first year, will not become pregnant.
Benefits
- Affordable
- Easy to use, with some practice
- Hormone-free
- The only method (+ male condoms) to protect against both unplanned pregnancies and STIs
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is the female condom so big?
In terms of length, the female condom is the same as the male. However, it is wider than the male condom. This is because when the female condom is inserted, the warmth and moisture in the vagina allows the condom to stick to the walls of the vagina, which allows the penis to move freely. The female condom also covers the outer part of the vagina and the base of the penis.
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Can the female condom get lost in by body?
No, the female condom cannot pass through the cervix, so it will always remain within the vagina.
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Is it true that the female condom can be inserted hours before sex?
Yes, the female condom can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex.
