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Female condoms

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

The female condom
The female condom

Alternative Names    Return to top

Condoms for women

Definition    Return to top

The female condom, like the male condom, is a barrier device used for birth control.

Information    Return to top

The female condom protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. However, it is not thought to be as effective for protecting against STDs as the male condom.

The female condom is made of a thin, strong plastic called polyurethane. It 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 female condom is estimated to be between 75% and 82% effective. The reasons for failure are the same as those for the male condom:

CONVENIENCE

PROS

CONS

HOW TO USE A FEMALE CONDOM

DISPOSING OF FEMALE CONDOMS

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

IMPORTANT TIPS

Update Date: 2/19/2008

Updated by: Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.