Female Condom

Later in the century, females wanted more control in condom use. Female condoms, also known as femidoms, have been invented to decrease the dependence of birth control from men. A typical female condom is wider and larger when compared to the male condoms. It has a flexible external ring-shaped opening that should fit the vaginal canal. Additionally, it should have a smaller internal ring to keep it from slipping out of the vagina during sexual intercourse.

Like male condoms, female condoms can be purchased in drugstores and are available without prescription and over-the-counter. However, in some countries, female condoms are not commercially available, so the male condom still is the most popular choice among physical barrier methods.

Similarly, female condoms are effective means of preventing the spread of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and the entry of sperm to an ovulated female egg, if properly used. And like the male condom, it make leak and break. At times, users of female condom, use it in conjunction with other birth control methods.

Putting a Female Condom

The female condom has given women more control in the birth control methods. With female condoms, a woman does not have to worry about hormonal side effects brought by pills and injectables. Plus, it gives women more freedom and dependence from men in terms of having a say over birth control means. Female condoms may be very expensive choices over the very cheap male condoms, but the responsibility and control of infections and unwanted pregnancies is shared with the women partner.

There are many brands carrying the female condom line. These include Reality, Femidom, Dominique, Care among others. For proper use of the condom, it is best that you do NOT reuse not only for hygienic reasons but also for health reasons. Never throw used condoms, whether female or male, in the toilet as it will only clog your plumbing lines.

Advantages

* An easy alternative over the prescription pills * When used effectively, preventive against STDs and unwanted pregnancies * No hormonal side effects * Can be lubricated with oil and water-based lubricants * A male’s erection not needed to hold condom in place

Disadvantages

* A bit pricey over male condoms * May break or leak * May be difficult to use and insert * May be uncomfortable and noticeable during sexual contact.

Video

These videos will show how female condoms work and are used.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4LReyLaQW0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnyC_v0-DQ4

Related Links

Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Condom

Avert http://www.avert.org/femcond.htm

Prevention Now http://www.preventionnow.net/