Female condom
The female condom is a method of contraception which has no side-effects. It protects against an unwanted pregnancy and also against sexually transmitted infections (STI), such as HIV.
The female condom is made of very thin plastic and looks like a transparent pouch. One end is closed off, with a flexible ring, which is inserted into the vagina. The other end is open, with a rather larger ring, which stops the female condom being pushed into the vagina during sexual intercourse.
Each female condom can only be used once.
How to use the female condom
Using the female condom for contraception takes some practice. The condom should be inserted into the vagina before there is any contact with the penis, since semen and pathogens can be emitted even before the man’s orgasm.
A lubricant can help you to insert the condom and also stop it being pulled out of the vagina with the penis.
A male condom and female condom should not be used together, as they may tear.
- Check the expiry date on the pouch. Only use condoms with the CE quality label on the pouch.
- Apply lubricant to the inside and outside of the condom.
- Squeeze together the sides of the ring at the closed end of the condom.
- Keeping the ring squeezed shut, insert the condom into the vagina, inserting the ring first.
- Put your finger into the condom and push it up as far as you can.
- The ring at the open end of the condom stays outside the body, covering the area around the vagina.
- The outer ring keeps the condom in place during intercourse.
- After intercourse, grasp the outer ring and twist it slightly. Then pull the condom out.
- Throw the used condom in a bin.
If the female condom is pushed inside the vagina
If the female condom is pushed completely into the vagina during intercourse, or is pulled out with the penis, there is a risk of pregnancy. Talk to a doctor or ask for emergency contraception at a pharmacy, the same day or the next day.
