The female condom, just like the male condom, is used during sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and control pregnancy. It is important to understand that female condom has an advantage over control pills including easy usage, no effect on natural hormones, enhanced sexual experience, and easily worn a few hours before intercourse commences.
It has a few disadvantages like causing irritation, slipping into the vagina, and experiencing louder noise during intercourse which can always be controlled by using lubrication.
You will find instructions on the packet and you can also get advice on how to use a female condom from a sexual health professional.
Best steps on how to use the female condom
- Check the expiry date and that it appears in good condition. If it has expired, never use it.
- Take the female condom carefully out of the packet so that there is less chance of it ripping (don’t use your teeth and be careful with sharp fingernails or jewelry). In this case, you are advised to practice the use of the condom in advance, so that you don’t make mistakes when having intercourse.
- Sit, squat, lie or stand in a position you find the most comfortable, similar to how you would insert a tampon so that you have access to your vagina.
- Squeeze the smaller ring at the closed end of the condom and insert it into your vagina as far as it will go, making sure that it doesn’t twist. The large ring at the open end of the female condom will cover the area around the vaginal opening – it is normal for this part to hang outside your body.
- During intercourse, the penis should enter into the female condom, rather than between the condom and the side of your vagina. You can help guide your partner into you to ensure it goes in the right place.
- When having intercourse, it is normal for the condom to move sides and as long as the inner ring is inserted and the penis is inside the condom; even if the penis slips, it can be re-inserted but if he ejaculates, you are advised to change it.
- After sex, twist the large ring to prevent semen from leaking out and gently pull the female condom out. You can then wrap the condom up and throw it away in the bin (it can block up your plumbing if you put it in the toilet).
- Always use a new female condom each time you have sex.