Pacer Pillowtalk: The female condom

The female condom. Yes, it's a real thing. 

There are many different types of contraceptives and protective measures that people can use when engaging in intercourse such as birth control pills, implants, injections, condoms, hormone patches, vaginal rings and intra-urinary devices (IUDs). 

The majority of people know about the male condom, yet little is known about the female condom even though they are both are a type of barrier contraceptive. A barrier contraceptive is a device that is worn (i.e. male or female condom) that blocks sperm cells from reaching the egg. 

The female condom is used to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases as well as pregnancy. There are only two types of female condoms that have been tested and approved in the United States; the FC1 and FC2 female condoms.

The FC1 model, which was made up of polyurethane (plastic), is no longer produced. The FC2 condom is made of synthetic latex, which is safe for people with allergies to rubber. Female condoms generally come pre-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant.  

A difference between female and male condoms is that the female condoms do not deteriorate with a change in temperature or dampness. There is a ring on each end of the female condom, one that is smaller and meant to be placed inside the vagina, and the other ring is left outside the vaginal opening to keep the condom from moving. 

When deciding to use a female condom, one should know the risks of doing such. As with the male condom, there is the possibility of the condom breaking. Other risks include the possibility of the female condom slipping out of the vagina, the penis slipping between the condom and the vaginal walls or the outer ring being pushed into the vagina. 

A link on how to properly insert and remove a female condom can be found here.

It is advised to not use both male and female condoms at the same time. This will cause friction between the condoms, causing them to tear and possibly lead to pregnancy or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.