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Female condoms

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

The female condom
The female condom

Alternative Names    Return to top

Condoms for women

Information    Return to top

The female condom, like the male condom, is a barrier device used for birth control. It is also protective against STDs including HIV. However, it is not thought to be as effective for this purpose as the male condom.

The female condom is made of polyurethane (a thin, strong plastic) and fits inside the vagina. The condom has a ring on each end. The ring that is placed inside the vagina fits over the cervix, covering it with the protective rubber material. The other ring, which is open, rests outside of the vagina and covers the vulva.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS IT?

The estimated effectiveness of the female condom is between 75% and 82%. The reasons for failure are the same as those for the male condom:

CONVENIENCE

BENEFICIAL SIDE EFFECTS

DETRIMENTAL SIDE EFFECTS

HOW TO USE A FEMALE CONDOM

DISPOSING OF FEMALE CONDOMS

You should always dispose of condoms appropriately in the trash. Do not flush a female condom down the toilet. It is likely to clog the plumbing.

IMPORTANT TIPS

Update Date: 5/15/2006

Updated by: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network

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