Female Condoms

The female condomA flexible sheath, usually made of thin rubber or latex, designed to cover the penis during sexual intercourse for contraceptive purposes or as a means of preventing sexually transmitted diseases., also referred to as an internal condom, is a plastic pouch that is used during intercourse to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. It has flexible rings at each end. Just before vaginal/anal intercourse, it is inserted deep into the vagina/anus. The ring at the closed end holds the pouch in the vagina. During anal intercourse, the closed ring needs to be removed. The ring at the open end stays outside the vaginal/anal opening during intercourse. Female condoms work to prevent pregnancy by covering the inside of the vagina.

Effectiveness:

• 79-95% effective in preventing pregnancy and offers good protection against sexually transmitted infections and HIV.

Advantages:

• Can be easily purchased at a drugstore or grocery store without a prescription.
• No exam required.
• Can protect against sexually transmitted infections and HIV.

Disadvantages:

• Outer ring can be pushed into vagina during intercourse.
• Penis can slip to the side of the condom.
• Can be hard to insert.

Availability:

• Female Condoms are available at some of our PPWP health center sites.
• An annual gynecological exam is not required.
• Please see Fees for Services for more information about our sliding fee options.

 

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