Female Condoms: How They Work, How to Use One and Who They Suit

Most people know about condoms worn on the penis. Far fewer know that there is a condom designed to be worn by the woman. The female condom, also called the internal condom, gives a woman direct control over protection, and it can be put in before intimacy rather than in the middle of it.

This guide explains how female condoms work, how to use one correctly and who might prefer them. It is written for readers in India and the US, where female condoms are available but much less familiar than male condoms.

What a female condom is

A female condom is a soft, loose pouch that lines the inside of the vagina. It has a flexible ring at each end. The inner ring, sometimes a soft sponge, sits deep inside and holds the condom in place. The outer ring stays outside the body and covers part of the vulva.

Like a male condom, it works as a barrier. It stops sperm from reaching the uterus and reduces the exchange of fluids that can carry sexually transmitted infections. Some female condoms are made from natural rubber latex, while others use nitrile or polyurethane, which suit people with a latex allergy.

How effective is it?

With perfect use every time, female condoms are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. In everyday life, mistakes happen, such as inserting it late or the penis slipping outside the condom, so typical-use effectiveness is lower than perfect use. The same is true for male condoms.

The best protection comes from using a condom correctly every single time. Couples who want extra protection against pregnancy often combine condoms with another method of birth control, such as the pill. Speak to a doctor or family-planning clinic to find the combination that suits you.

How to insert a female condom

Read the leaflet that comes with your brand, as designs vary. The general steps are:

• Check the expiry date and open the sachet carefully with your fingers, never with scissors or teeth.
• Find a comfortable position: squatting, lying down or standing with one foot on a chair.
• Squeeze the inner ring or sponge between your thumb and finger so it becomes long and narrow.
• Gently push it into the vagina as far as it comfortably goes, a little like inserting a tampon.
• Put a finger inside the condom and push the inner ring up as far as it will go.
• Make sure the outer ring stays outside the body and the condom is not twisted.

It can be inserted up to a few hours before intimacy, which many women appreciate because it means no pause at the last moment.

During intimacy

Guide the penis into the condom so it does not slip between the condom and the vaginal wall. It is normal for the condom to move a little. If you feel the outer ring being pushed inside, or the penis slips outside the condom, stop and adjust it.

Never use a female condom and a male condom at the same time. The friction between them can make one or both tear.

How to remove it

Remove the condom before standing up. Twist the outer ring a couple of times to keep fluid inside, then pull it out gently. Wrap it in tissue or a disposal bag and put it in the bin, never down the toilet. Use a new condom every time.

Advantages

• The woman controls protection and does not have to negotiate at the last moment.
• It can be inserted ahead of time.
• Non-latex versions suit people with latex allergies.
• It protects against STIs as well as pregnancy.
• It does not depend on an erection staying firm.

Possible downsides

• It takes a little practice to insert comfortably.
• It can make a rustling sound for some couples, which extra lubricant often reduces.
• It is usually more expensive than male condoms and harder to find in shops.
• Some people find the outer ring visible or unfamiliar at first.

Practise first

The first time you use a female condom, try inserting it on your own with no time pressure. This makes it far easier when it matters. A few drops of water-based lubricant on the outside of the inner ring can make insertion smoother.

Talking about it with your partner

Introducing a new method works best as a conversation rather than a surprise. Explain why you want to try it, show your partner how it works and agree to try it together. Many couples find that the woman being in charge of protection takes pressure off both partners.

Where to buy

In India, female condoms are sold online and in some pharmacies; brands such as Domina come with disposal bags. In the US, female condoms are mainly available through pharmacies, clinics and health services, and some health plans cover them. Always buy from a trusted seller and check the expiry date.

If you have questions about contraception, STI testing or what suits your body, a gynaecologist or sexual health clinic can give advice in confidence.

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