The female condom is designed to fit all women and is suitable for all ages. It offers Australian women and men an alternative to the male condom. Studies have shown that, if used correctly, the female condom is effective in both preventing pregnancy and providing a barrier to sexually transmissible infections (STIs).
The female condom is available from Family Planning Victoria clinics and some pharmacies and sexual health clinics.
The female condom
The female condom is a prelubricated sheath that fits loosely into the vagina. Insertion is assisted by a soft removable ring, which also helps to keep the condom in place. A large flexible ring remains on the outside of the vagina, covering the opening of the vagina (vulva) and providing added protection.
When used correctly, the female condom works as well as the diaphragm, the other female barrier available in Australia. However, getting used to inserting and using the female condom may take some practice.
Advantages
The great advantage of the female condom is that it is a barrier method of contraception that is under the woman’s control. It is 95 per cent effective, if used properly, but allowing for mistakes may only be 81 per cent effective.
Other advantages include:
- It can be inserted up to eight hours before intercourse.
- It is soft and flexible, so it does not hurt to insert or remove.
- It is made from polyurethane (not latex), which conducts heat, so sex can feel more sensitive and pleasurable.
- It is strong and odourless and can be used with any type of lubricant (water or oil-based).
- It can be used during menstruation.
- A male partner does not have to have a full erection.
- After ejaculating, a male partner does not need to withdraw immediately.
- It provides greater vulval coverage and may give greater protection against STIs.
Potential problems
Studies have revealed the following potential problems associated with the female condom:
- It tends to hang loosely from the vagina.
- It makes a rustling sound during intercourse.
- It can be pushed up into the vagina.
- There is a possibility the penis may enter the vagina outside the device.
An alternative to the male condom
Research has shown a general satisfaction with the female condom from both men and women. Ninety per cent of the couples in one study considered the female condom as an acceptable barrier method and 87 per cent felt it was a good contraceptive device. Most couples (87 per cent) found it easy to use and 55 per cent preferred it to male condoms.
Men like the female condom because it is not constricting and does not fit tightly around the penis. Some men prefer it, as they are unable to maintain an erection while putting on a male condom.
Other types of contraception
There are a number of contraception choices available in Australia. Consult with your doctor, reproductive health nurse or reproductive health provider such as Family Planning Victoria about your options. The method of contraception you choose will depend on your general health, lifestyle and relationship. It is important to weigh up the benefits and possible negative effects of each method and think about your current and future needs.
Protect against STIs
It is important to practise safe sex. The female condom is a barrier method that decreases the risk of STIs for both women and their partners. Other types of barrier protection include male condoms and dams (a thin piece of latex placed over the anal or vulval area during oral sex). Condoms can be used for oral, vaginal and anal sex (in conjunction with other contraceptive methods where required) to help prevent the spread of infections.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Your local community health centre
- Family Planning Victoria Tel. (03) 9257 0100 or 1800 013 952
- Women’s Health Information Centre, Tel. (03) 9344 2007 and 1800 442 007
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre Tel. (03) 9341 6200 or 1800 032 017 or TTY (for the hearing impaired) (03) 9347 8619
- Victoria AIDS Council/Gay Men’s Health Centre Tel. (03) 9865 6700 or 1800 134 840
- Education and Resource Centre at The Alfred. Tel. (03) 9276 6993
- The Centre Clinic, Northcote Tel. (03) 9481 7155
- The Centre Clinic, St Kilda Tel. (03) 9525 5866
- The Action Centre (for young people under 25) Tel. (03) 9654 4766 or 1800 013 952
- The Annexe Sexual Health Clinic Ballarat Tel. (03) 5320 7500
- BBV/STI Clinic Bendigo Tel. (03) 5434 4330
- Geelong Sexual Health Clinic Tel. (03) 5226 7254
- STD Clinic Wodonga Tel. (03) 6051 7535
- STD/AIDS Clinic Traralgon Tel. (03) 5173 8111.
Things to remember
- The female condom provides an effective safer sex and contraceptive option that is within the woman’s control.
- It can be used once only. If used more than once, protection from STIs or unwanted pregnancy is decreased.
- Like all barrier contraceptives, the effectiveness of the female condom is highly dependent on correct and consistent use.
You might also be interested in:
Contraception - choices explained.
Contraception - condoms for men.
Contraception - emergency contraception.
Contraception - female sterilisation.
Contraception - implants and injections.
Contraception - injections for men.
Contraception - intrauterine devices.
Contraception - the Billings method.
Contraception - the pill.
Safe sex.
Sex - are you ready.
Sex education - talking to teenagers.
Sexually transmissible infections - overview.
Sexually transmissible infections - signs and symptoms.
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