Female condom

Female condoms are like male condoms except they fit inside the vagina instead of covering the penis. They are 95% effective in preventing pregnancy if used correctly every time you have sex.

Female condoms are very similar to male condoms, except they fit inside the vagina instead of over the penis. They are made of polyeurothane and are slightly wider than a male condom. They are held in place with a ring that lies outside the vagina.

Spend a bit of time looking here and finding out more about female condoms. If you have any questions, contact Ask Brook on 0808 802 1234. Your call will be confidential. That means we won't tell anyone about it.

How does a female condom work?
How do you use a female condom?
Good things about the female condom
Things to watch out for with the female condom
How effective is the female condom?
What makes the female condom less effective?
Who can use female condoms?

How does a female condom work?

The female condom lines the vagina and stops sperm getting into it. Look for instructions with the packet which you should read carefully before using female condoms for the first time.

How do you use female condoms?

Always read the packet instructions, as they will contain a diagram of how to insert the condom.

It’s a good idea to put the condom in before the penis touches the vagina or genital area.

You can put the condom in when you are lying down, squatting or with one leg on a chair. It’s worth experimenting with putting the condom in to find the position that suits you best.

As with male condoms you should always use a new condom every time you have sex and check the 'use by' date on the packet.

Great reasons to use a female condom

• They protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy
• They can be put in any time before sex
• You can use an oil based lubricant without damaging them.

Things to watch out for with the female condom

• They can slip if not used properly
• They are not always available at family planning clinics and expensive to buy

How effective is the female condom?

If it is used properly the female condom is 95% effective, which means that 5 in every 100 women who use female condoms will get pregnant each year.

What makes the female condom less effective?

• If it slips or gets pushed out of place.
• If it is not put in properly.

Who can use the female condom?

Female condoms are suitable for most women. As they are made from polyurethane, they do not usually cause allergies.