Female condom

The female condom is a soft, loosefitting polyurethane (plastic) pouch with two O-rings on the ends. One ring is inserted into the vagina and holds the female condom in place, and the open-end ring remains outside the vagina. Only one female condom, the FC female condom, is available in the United States at this time. A second-generation model, the FC2, is used in other countries but doesn't have Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in the U.S. Other models are currently being tested as well.

Effectiveness rate. The typical effectiveness rate of the female condom is 79 percent. In other words, 21 out of 100 women who use the female condom for one year will get pregnant.

Side effects and health risks. Some women may experience vaginal irritation or irritation of the vulva by the outer ring. Some couples have experienced decreased sensation, and some say that it's noisy during intercourse. Because female condoms are made out of polyurethane (plastic), people who are allergic to latex can use them. Female condoms protect against STDs, including HIV.

How to use the female condom. If you decide to use a female condom, insert it before the penis comes in contact with the vagina. First, lubricate the closed end of the condom. Squeeze the closed (inner) ring at one end and insert it into the vagina like a tampon. Push it into the vagina as far as it can go. It will be resting against the cervix. The outer ring will hang out of the vagina about an inch. If needed, you may use more lubricant during intercourse. The female condom can be used with water- or oil-based lubricants. During intercourse, movement of the condom from side to side is normal.

To remove the female condom, first twist the outer ring so that the semen is contained in the condom. Gently pull it out of the vagina and throw it in the trash. You must use a new female condom every time you have intercourse.

Cost and availability. Female condoms are widely available without a prescription at drugstores and some supermarkets for about $3 each.