This section describes plastic (synthetic) female condoms.

Sheaths, or linings, that fit loosely inside a woman’s vagina, made of thin, transparent, soft plastic film.

–Have flexible rings at both ends

– One ring at the closed end helps to insert the condom

– The ring at the open end holds part of the condom outside the vagina

• Different brand names include Care, Dominique, FC Female Condom, Femidom, Femy, Myfemy, Protectiv’, and Reality.
• Lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant on the inside and outside.
• Latex female condoms may be available in some countries.
• Work by forming a barrier that keeps sperm out of the vagina, preventing pregnancy. Also keep infections in semen, on the penis, or in the vagina from infecting the other partner.

How Effective?

Effectiveness depends on the user: risk of pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection (STI) is greatest when female condoms are not used with every act of sex. Few pregnancies or infections occur due to incorrect use, slips, or breaks.

Protection against pregnancy:

• As commonly used, about 21 pregnancies per 100 women using female condoms over the first year. This means that 79 of every 100 women using female condoms will not become pregnant.
• When used correctly with every act of sex, about 5 pregnancies per 100 women using female condoms over the first year.

Return of fertility after use of female condom is stopped: no delay

Protection against HIV and other STIs: Female condoms reduce the risk of infection with STIs, including HIV, when used correctly with every act of sex.

• Women can initiate their use
• Have a soft, moist texture that feels more natural than male latex condoms during sex
• Help protect against both pregnancy and STIs, including HIV
• Outer ring provides added sexual stimulation for some women
• Can be used without seeing a health care provider

• Can be inserted ahead of time so do not interrupt sex
• Are not tight or constricting like male condoms
• Do not dull the sensation of sex like male condoms
• Do not have to be removed immediately after ejaculation

Side Effects, Health Benefits, and Health Risks

Side Effects

None

Known Health Benefits

Help protect against:

• Risks of pregnancy
• STIs, including HIV

Known Health Risks

None

Female condoms:

• Cannot get lost in the woman’s body.
• Are not difficult to use, but correct use needs to be learned.
• Do not have holes that HIV can pass through.
• Are used by married couples. They are not only for use outside marriage.
• Do not cause illness in a woman because they prevent semen or sperm from entering her body.