A female condom is a polyurethane (soft plastic) liner that a woman inserts
into her vagina before sex to protect herself and her partner(s) from HIV and
other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and to prevent pregnancy.
How do they work?
A female condom acts as a barrier that keeps pre-ejaculate fluid and semen
from coming in contact with the vagina, and prevents vaginal fluid or menstrual
blood from touching the penis. This barrier protects against unwanted pregnancy
and the transmission of HIV or other STIs.
How do I put it on and use it?
- put lubricant (water or oil-based) inside and outside the condom
- squeeze the inner ring (at the closed end) and using your fingers, gently
push it up as high as possible into the vagina (as you would insert
a diaphragm or a tampon without an applicator)
- leave the outer ring (at the open end) outside, spread over the lips of
the vagina
- guide your partner's penis into the opening of condom
- during intercourse, if the condom starts to pull out or push in, put more
lubricant on the penis
- after intercourse, before standing up, close the condom by twisting the
outer ring, then gently pull it out and throw it away. Female condoms, like
male condoms, should not be used more than once.
Are female condoms effective?
Yes. Although no form of protection is 100% effective, all condoms approved
for sale in Canada have met Health
Canada's requirements for safety and effectiveness. To be protected, you
must use the female condom correctly. You should practice putting one on before
you use it for intercourse.
What are the pros and cons?
For women who have sex with men, the potential benefits include:
- more power in negotiating safer sex (less need to persuade male partners
to use male condoms)
- less disruption during sex. Female condoms can be put on up to eight hours
before intercourse and they do not have to be removed immediately afterwards.
- a looser fit which is not as tight as a male condom
- partial coverage of the outer lips (labia) of the vagina which helps prevent
the spread of other sexually transmitted infections
- the female condoms that are sold in Canada are made of polyurethane, not
latex, so they do not cause allergies or irritation and they can be used with
either oil-based or water-based lubricants.
Possible disadvantages are:
- visibility - if an abusive partner sees the condom
and objects, it could put a woman in danger
- cost - female condoms are more expensive than male condoms (approx. $3 each).
Do they work for anal intercourse?
Although they were not made for this purpose, female condoms may provide some
protection against the spread of HIV and other STIs during anal intercourse.
Remove the inner ring before using the condom for anal sex.
Where do I get female condoms?
Many stores now sell them. Health centres, AIDS service organizations, clinics
and drop-in centres may provide samples that you can try.
Additional Resources:
What is a condom?: the female condom
For more information, contact your local AIDS
service organization or health care practitioner.
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