Female condoms are becoming more commonly available in pharmacies and clinics. Currently, the only brand on the market is called FC Female Condom. They're made of polyurethane, come pre-lubricated in individually sealed packets, and can be purchased in boxes of multiple packets.

How Does It Work?

The female condom may seem daunting to new users who are unclear about how to insert it. Luckily, the FC Female Condom Web site provides illustrated diagrams that explain how to use it. Proper insertion and use are important to ensure its effectiveness.

In addition to vaginal intercourse, the female condom can also be used safely for penetrative anal sex play, because the outer ring will prevent the condom from going too far inside the body to be "retrieved." (Keep in mind that a fresh condom should always be used before switching from anal to vaginal intercourse to prevent bacteria from entering the vagina.)

If a woman is uncomfortable inserting something into the vagina with her fingers, the female condom may not be an ideal option. On the other hand, if a woman wants to use a "creative teamwork" approach, having a partner help with insertion can be incorporated into foreplay.

Similarities and Differences

Female condoms share many of the advantages of latex condoms, not to mention a few unique perks of their own.

Like the latex condom, the female condom

• reduces the risk of both unwanted pregnancy (95 percent effective versus 98 percent for the latex condom) and sexually transmitted infections, when used consistently and correctly. In fact, female condoms may provide increased protection against infections that can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes or genital warts, because the vagina, cervix, and part of the labia remain covered by the pouch during sex play.
  
• is relatively inexpensive (although more expensive than latex condoms)
  
• is disposable
  
• does not require a prescription

Unlike the latex condom, the female condom

• does not have to interrupt sex play or interfere with spontaneity, because it can be put in ahead of time and left in
  
• can continue to be used during sex play, even if a man loses his erection — the female condom is not dependant on a man's erection to stay in place
  
• can be used with water-based or oil-based lubrication, because it is made of polyurethane rather than latex
  
• is safe for people with latex allergies
  
• does not have to be removed immediately after ejaculation. Because the inner ring anchors the female condom in place, it will not slip the way a latex condom can.
  
• loosely lines the vagina without constricting the penis

We admit it — on first glance, the size and shape of the female condom may seem a bit odd to those accustomed to using latex condoms. But bearing in mind all of the benefits it offers, with a little bit of practice, the female condom can be an appealing option for women looking to reduce their risk of pregnancy and infection.

© 2004 Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
Ashley Rondini is a freelance sexual health writer.
Published: 10.04.04