What is the female condom?

The first female condom (Femidon) was introduced in 1992. It is made of a soft plastic material. It fits into the vagina lining the inside walls of the vagina.

How effective is the female condom?

It is thought to be 95% effective if used correctly. This means that about 5 women in 100 using the female condom correctly will become pregnant each year. This is a little less effective than the male condom. (Compare this to when no contraception is used. More than 80 in 100 sexually active women who do not use contraception become pregnant within one year.)

Correct use means using the condom every time you have sex. It is very important to avoid any contact between the penis and the vaginal area before the condom is inserted.

What are the advantages of the female condom?

It is easy to obtain and to use. It helps protect against sexually transmitted infections. It may help protect against cancer of the cervix (cancer of the neck of the uterus). It is less likely to burst than the male condom.

What are the disadvantages of the female condom?

It is more expensive than the male condom. It may get pushed into the vagina during sex and then become less effective.

How do I use a female condom?

You should read the instructions that come with the packet. The following is just a general guide:

• Check the condom is not passed its 'use by' date.
• Use each condom only once.
• Insert the closed end of the condom into the vagina. Do this by holding the inner ring between your finger and thumb and placing it as far in the vagina as possible. Then put one or two fingers inside the condom up to the inner ring. Then push it in the vagina as far as it will go. The outer ring should then lie against the outside of the vagina.
• Unlike the male condom, it is loose fitting and will move during sex. If the outer ring gets pushed inside the vagina then stop and put it back in the right place.
• Make sure the penis enters the condom during sex and does not go between the condom and the wall of the vagina.
• After sex, a slight twist and pull will remove the condom. Take care not to spill any semen onto the vagina. Don't put it in the toilet but wrap it up and put in a bin.

Common errors using a female condom include the following:

• The penis may leak sperm before the man ejaculates ('comes'). If there is any contact with the vaginal area before the condom is inserted, pregnancy may occur.
• The penis may go between the condom and the wall of the vagina.
• If sex had occurred earlier there may be sperm still on the penis. If there is any contact with the vagina before a new condom is inserted, then pregnancy may occur.
• Damage to the condom may cause the condom to split. For example, by sharp fingernails.

Note: if any of the above happens then you should obtain emergency contraception within 72 hours. It is more effective the sooner it is taken after sexual intercourse.

Further information

Your GP and practice nurse are good sources of information if you have any queries.
The fpa (formerly the family planning association) also provide information and advice.
fpa's helpline: 0845 310 1334 or visit their website www.fpa.org.uk