What is a female condom?
The female condom is a barrier method of contraception, as it prevents sperm from passing into the uterus. The condom is shaped like a tube, made of silicone, and has a ring at each end.
How does the female condom work?
Like the male condom, the female condom acts as a physical barrier preventing sperm from reaching the egg, fertilizing it and giving rise to a pregnancy.
How effective is the female condom?
When used correctly, it is an effective method of contraception, both in preventing unwanted pregnancies and in preventing sexually transmitted infections.
How do you use the female condom?
The use of the female condom is not difficult and is placed manually in the vagina:
- hold the condom with the open end facing down
- use your thumb and middle finger to compress the flexible ring on the closed side to make it into a narrow oval
- With your other hand, pull your lips away from your vulva
- insert the end that has the ring into the vagina
- use your index finger to push the ring as deep into the vagina as possible. In this way, the condom is almost entirely inserted into the vagina
- insert a finger inside the condom until it touches the bottom of the ring
- push the ring
- ensure that the outer ring and part of the condom are outside the vagina and over the vulva
- check if the penis penetrates the inside of the condom
- At the end of intercourse, twist the outer ring and gently pull the condom out. Remove it right after ejaculation, so that the seminal fluid does not drain into the vagina
What are the advantages of the female condom?
Among the main advantages of condoms are:
- Avoiding sexually transmitted diseases: male and female condoms are the only ones
- methods of contraception avoid them
- has no side effects
- has no contraindications
- does not require medical supervision
- is a method whose use depends on the woman
What are the disadvantages of the female condom?
In Portugal, among the main disadvantages is the lack of dissemination, so it may not be easy to access.
On the other hand, it is not recommended in case of genital anomalies or uterine prolapse (descent of the uterus).
Where can I find the female condom?
The female condom is available free of charge at family planning consultations with the National Health Service and some Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) working on sexual health.
Male condoms can also be purchased in stores where male condoms can also be purchased:
- pharmacy
- official establishments authorized for the sale of medicines merchants
What precautions should I take with the female condom?
Before using the condom, make sure that:
- Condoms should be stored in a cool place
- The packaging is intact and has a quality control symbol
- also the condom has an expiration date. Check it on the packaging
- If you need more lube, put it directly on the penis using only water-based lube
- You should not use the female condom at the same time as the male condom
- is single-use, so it can only be used once
When should I insert the female condom for use?
The female condom should be inserted into the vagina before intercourse, up to 8 hours before intercourse, but should be removed immediately after intercourse.
Does the female condom interfere with pleasure?
No. It does not prevent the intense experience of feelings and pleasure.
Source: Sociedade Portuguesa de Contracepção (SPDC)