What is Birth Control – Female Condom?
A female condom is a thin, soft, loose-fitting protective cover with a flexible ring at both ends. It is used during sexual intercourse as a barrier contraceptive to reduce the chances of sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. It is also known as a femidom or internal condoms or FCs.
How is it used?
Female partner wears it internally and provides a physical barrier to prevent exposure to sperm. It can be used during anal sex.
INSERTION
- Step 1- Lubricant should be put on the outside of the closed end.
- Step 2 - Make your body at a comfortable position. ( You can stand with one foot, squat, sit on the side of a chair, lie down on the bed,.)
- Step 3 - Squeeze together the sides of the inner ring at the closed end and insert it into the vagina.
- Step 4 - The inner ring should be pushed into the vagina until it reaches the cervix.
- Step 5- Then pull out your finger and the outer ring should be hanged outside the vagina (about an inch).
REMOVAL
- Step 1- To keep sperm inside the pouch, you need to squeeze and twist the outer ring of female condom.
- Step 2 - You pull it out from anus or vagina.
What is the effectiveness?
It is 95% effective when used correctly but if you don’t use it correctly, its effectiveness reduces to 79%.
How long it is effective?
One female condom is used for one-time intercourse. You need to have new condom for every intercourse.
What are the advantages of Female Condom?
- It gives protection against STDs and unwanted pregnancy
- It can be used just before intercourse so minimum interruption of sexual activity
- Male does not need to withdraw right after ejaculation.
What are the disadvantages of Female Condom?
- It may be moved during sex, be noisy, or uncomfortable
- It can only be used for one time
- Cost is higher than male condom