Female condom is a loose polyurethane sheath with a flexible ring at each end that sits in the vagina and collects semen. It can be inserted many hours before intercourse and is stronger than the male latex condom, but may take some practice with insertion and use. The condom is placed into the woman's vagina. Both ends have a flexible ring used to keep the condom in the vagina. The ring with the closed end of sheath lies inside the vagina, and the other ring at the open end of the sheath lies outside the vagina after insertion.
Squeeze and twist the outer ring after intercourse to keep all the fluids inside the condom. Do not reuse the condoms or throw it in the toilet after intercourse. The female condom helps protect partners from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. It is the only female-controlled device offering this protection.
Advantages of female condoms
Female condoms can be inserted 8 hours before sex play begins. Female condoms do not need specific storage as polyurethane is not affected by changes in temperature and dampness. It can be used with oil based lubricants. Sensation is preserved as the polyurethane is thin and conducts heat well. The material used to make female condoms is less likely to cause any allergic reactions. They are small easy to carry and disposable. Women can use female condoms if their partner refuses to or rather women share the responsibilities to protect themselves and their partner from STDs. It will also safeguard them from pregnancy. You need not worry about the expiry date as it dates from 5 years of manufacture.
Disadvantages of female condoms
Does not contain spermicide. It is comparably more expensive than male condoms. It is hard to insert and remove. It is not available in as many stores as the male condom and may be hard to find. Polyurethane condoms are most likely to slip or brake than latex. The failure rate is more when compared to other contraceptive methods. Women feel uncomfortable, as the outer ring is visible outside vagina. Women have frequently complained of the noise made by the condom during intercourse.
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