Did you know that female condoms exist and can provide the same contraceptive effects as male condoms? This article will introduce what female condoms are, their pros and cons, and address common questions about their usage, giving you a clearer understanding of how to use female condoms!

1. What is a Female Condom?

A female condom (also known as a femidom) is a polyurethane sheath that typically includes an inner ring and an outer ring. The inner ring is placed inside the vagina, while the outer ring covers the external genitalia. By creating a physical barrier, it effectively prevents sperm from entering the uterus, achieving a contraceptive effectiveness of approximately 95%.

Female condoms can also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and can be used not only in the vagina but also during anal intercourse, providing comprehensive protection for women.

2. Pros and Cons of Female Condoms

(a) Advantages of Female Condoms

  • Empowerment for women in contraception
  • Reduction of the risk of sexually transmitted diseases
  • Comfort and ease of use
  • Not affected by other medications
  • Can be used during menstruation and pregnancy

(b) Disadvantages of Female Condoms

  • Difficulty in use for some women
  • Possible breakage if not used correctly
  • Possible irritation or allergic reactions
  • Less common and more expensive compared to male condoms

3. How to Use Female Condoms

Follow these 9 simple steps to wear a female condom:

  1. Open the package, being careful to avoid sharp objects.
  2. Squeeze the inner ring together and insert it into the vagina, allowing it to move towards the cervix.
  3. Make sure the outer ring covers the area outside the vagina.
  4. Roll the condom over the fingers and push it into the vagina, ensuring it is not twisted.
  5. Leave about an inch of the open end outside the vagina.
  6. Ensure the condom is in place and use your hand to guide the penis into the condom during intercourse.
  7. After intercourse, twist the outer ring several times and gently pull the condom out, ensuring no fluids spill.
  8. Dispose of the used female condom immediately.

Keep the vagina well-lubricated to prevent friction and potential condom breakage. If needed, water-based lubricants can enhance comfort during insertion.

4. Common Questions about Female Condoms

  • What to do if wearing a female condom is challenging?
  • How to ensure the correct placement of a female condom?
  • How to prevent female condom breakage?
  • Will a female condom twist inside the vagina?
  • When should a female condom not be used?
  • Can female and male condoms be used together?
  • How to store female condoms?