In some countries a female condom is available. It is made of a thin plastic material (polyurethane, not to be confused with the rubber or latex male condom) and has a flexible ring at each end which holds it in place on the cervix (closed end of the condom) and at the entrance to the vagina (open end.)

Inserting the condom requires practice. Take hold of the soft, inner ring at the closed end and squeeze it between your thumb and middle finger so that it becomes long and narrow. Using the other hand to hold the lips of the vagina apart, carefully introduce the inner ring into the vaginal canal. Place your index finger in the condom to push it as far as possible into the vagina making sure that it does not become twisted. The outer ring remains outside the vagina. The condom adheres to the vaginal wall.

It is extremely important to apply enough lubricant either to the inside of the condom or to the penis before intercourse. If the condom comes out or is pushed inside the body too little lubricant has been used.

After sex you should remove the condom before getting up. To do this squeeze together the edges of the outer ring, twist it and carefully extract the condom.

Do not use a condom more than once.

Effectiveness of the female condom

If used properly the condom is moderately effective. The effectiveness can be increased by additional use of spermicides. You can either apply the spermicide to the vagina before you insert the condom or apply it to the outside of the condom before insertion.

Advantages of the female condom

The chief advantage is that the female condom, like the male condom, provides protection against sexually transmitted diseases.

As the female condom is made of polyurethane it can also be used by couples in whom one partner is hypersensitive to latex.

The condom is a suitable alternative for women who cannot or do not wish to use hormonal contraceptives and for women who only have sex from time to time and therefore do not want to use contraception on a regular basis.

Disadvantages of the female condom

The 'rustling' sound made by the condom during intercourse must be regarded as a disadvantage. Many couples find it unattractive that part of the condom protrudes from the vagina.

Proper use of the female condom requires a certain amount of practice.