Condoms (cont.)
What Is a Female Condom?
The female condom is a lubricated polyurethane (plastic) tube that has a flexible ring at each end. One end of the tube is closed.
How Is the Female Condom Used?
Before sexual activity begins, the woman inserts the condom into her vagina so that the closed end of the tube covers the cervix, and the other end slightly covers the labia (lips on the outside of the vagina). The condom blocks sperm from entering the womb. Female condoms should be discarded after one use.
Where Can I Get Female Condoms?
Like the male condom, the female condom is available at drug stores without a prescription.
How Effective Is the Female Condom at Preventing Pregnancy?
The female condom is about 75% effective.
Do Female Condoms Protect Against STDs?
Female condoms provide some protection against sexually transmitted diseases, but the male condom provides the best protection if you have sex.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, WebMD, Oct. 2003.
Portions of this page copyright © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004
Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 8:18:35 AM
- Natural Methods of Birth Control - Natural methods of birth control are non-mechanical and non-hormonal. They are also considered fertility awareness methods and there are a variety of choices for natural birth control.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Women (STDs) - Learn and become aware of common STDs in women, including descriptions, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of each type of infection.
- Vasectomy - A vasectomy is a simple surgical procedure used as a permanent form of male birth control. The odds of pregnancy after a vasectomy are low and the side effects are few.
Latest Medical News
Sexual Health RSS