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PharmEasy Blog

All About Female Condoms-Uses, Effectiveness And Tips

What are female condoms? 

A female condom is a birth control device made up of polyurethane or a newer version made of nitrile, a man-made latex-free material. It is a long pouch that fits inside the vagina and like a male condom, collects the semen and aims to reduce the chances of pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. 

The female condom needs to be placed inside the vagina before beginning intercourse These are said to be approx 95% effective when compared to male condoms (98% effective).

How to use a female condom? 

Wearing a female condom can be tricky in the beginning, but it gets easier with practice. 

• Do not reuse a condom. Wear a fresh one after each round of vaginal sex.
• Wash your hand and open the packet and remove the condom carefully. Do not tear the packet with your teeth.
• Check the condom for any signs of damage.
• Find the most comfortable position for you to relax in while you place the condom. You may lie on your back, squat or place one leg higher on a chair seat.
• Just like you would wear a tampon, squeeze the small ring present at the closed end of the condom and insert it as far as it goes inside your vagina. Let go of the ring so that it fits over the cervix and covers it
• The ring on the open side of the condom rests outside the vagina.
• Remove the female condom carefully after sex. Twist the loose outer open side to prevent semen from leaking out. 
• Dispose of the used condom.
• Most female condoms are pre-lubricated but you can add more lubricant for easy use. Read the packaging to see which lubricants are suitable.

Effectiveness of female condoms

If you wear the female condom correctly and follow the instructions listed on the packaging, it is may serve as an effective measure for contraception. Statistically speaking a female condom is upto 95% effective when used correctly. However, some situations can make the female condom less effective. If-

• A penis comes in contact with the vagina before the female condom is worn
• The condom tears due to sharp nails, teeth bite or jewellery while opening 
• The condom gets pushed back too far inside the vagina

If you think that semen has entered your vagina. Consult your doctor about-

• An emergency contraceptive pill
• Go for an STI testing at your nearby health facility

Advantages of female condoms

• Can be purchased from a pharmacy or family planning clinic without a prescription.
• Can be used during pregnancy, after childbirth and during menstruation.
• Acts as effective protection against unwanted pregnancy and STIs.
• Not made of latex but a softer material called nitrile, which does not irritate the skin or cause allergies.
• Female condoms can be worn 8 hours before sexual intercourse, therefore it does not ruin the mood.
• It remains secure in its position even if your partner loses his erection.
• You can use both oil-based and water-based lubricants without damaging the condom or making it less effective.
• The female condom has a longer shelf life compared to a male condom. It lasts for upto 5 years and is not affected by sunlight or humidity.
• There are no serious health hazards of a female condom.

Disadvantages of female condoms

• They are more expensive than male condoms.
• Difficulty in wearing. Not all females are comfortable putting on female condoms.
• Not as widely available or popular as male condoms.
• Friction and lack of lubrication can make sex less pleasurable and uncomfortable.
• No contact between the penis and vagina reduces clitoral stimulation.
• There is still a chance of STIs.
• Female condoms are available in only one size.

Important points to remember 

• Do not use a male and female condom together. The friction may cause either or both condoms to tear.
• Do not tear open the condom package with your teeth or sharp objects like scissors or fingernails.
• If the female condom breaks, it bunches up inside the vagina. Remove it immediately and replace it right away.
• Remove tampons before wearing the condom.
• Keep a male condom in handy in case of any emergency.
• Condoms do not assure 100% contraception. Consult your doctor for additional measures (IUD, contraceptive pills etc.) for contraception. 

Conclusion

Even though you do not need to remove the condom immediately after sex, it is advised to do so to avoid any incident of sperm spillage. Female condoms do not completely eliminate but significantly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Make sure to read the instructions on the package on how to wear the condom and the lubrication specifications to ensure a safe, pleasurable and hassle-free sexual experience.

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

Things You Shouldn’t Do Before And After Sex

A healthy sexual relationship feels great and brings you closer to your partner. Regular intimacy is also beneficial to your mental and physical health. Making love can improve your heart function, reduce stress and anxiety, alleviate aches and so much more. Unfortunately, some seemingly innocent habits before and after sex can lead to issues, ruining your healthy fun. Here are a few considerations you may want to make before and after sex.

Things you should avoid before sex

1. Avoid spicy food

If you intend to have sex, reduce the amount of hot sauce you use. Spicy foods, such as curry and peppers, can cause acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn and a burning sensation in the throat, making it difficult to relax. Rich, heavy foods high in fat like fried chicken, citrus fruits, carbonated drinks and caffeinated beverages can all cause heartburn because they are more difficult for your body to digest. So, take it easy on your stomach. Bananas, oatmeal, apples and graham crackers are less likely to cause heartburn.

2. Avoid drinking too much

While a beer or two may get you in the mood, men should avoid drinking too much before sex. Alcohol is a known risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition that makes it difficult to obtain or maintain a strong enough erection to perform the deed. Though a few alcohol-related incidents do not necessarily indicate that you have ED, frequent heavy boozing can lead to long-term problems.

3. Don’t shave right before

Is shaving your preferred method of grooming your lady parts? No problem, but you should plan ahead of time. Shaving makes the skin around your genitals more fragile, sensitive and prone to irritation from sex friction. Reduce your risk by shaving the day before you’re going to be intimate.

Things you should avoid after having sex

You’re probably revelling in the postcoital flood of hormones that make you sleepy and relaxed in the moments immediately following sex. Even if you’re tired, there are a few things you should not do right after sex to keep your body as healthy as possible. So let’s take a look at what not to do after sex:

1. You shouldn’t forget to use the bathroom

It is a good idea to empty your bladder post-sex because the activity is known to aid in the transfer of bacteria from the anal area to the vaginal/urethra. Using the restroom cleans the area and reduces the risk of infection.

2. Avoid using perfumed or scented products on your genital area

While scented soaps, gels, washes, lotions and other genital health products are good, they can irritate internal and external skin and should be avoided after sex. Soaps and products with a lot of added fragrances can alter the good and normal bacteria. Washing the genitals with simply normal to lukewarm water is recommended. To avoid irritating the genital area with harsh scents or chemicals, keep your post-sex cleansing routine as simple and gentle as possible.

3. You should never douche after sex

Although douching after sex is frequently marketed as a safe and healthy way to prevent pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections, experts advise against it because it alters your normal vaginal flora and increases your risk of UTIs, yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, a condition caused by vaginal inflammation caused by bacterial overgrowth.

An after sex shower is good; however, jumping into a warm bath tub right after sex is not good. As a response to sexual stimulation, the vagina opens a little more. But when you take a warm bath or shower just after that, you become more vulnerable to infections.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Also Read: How to Get Rid of Hickeys: Research-Backed Remedies and Prevention Tips

4. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing post sex

Because there is usually an excess of bodily fluids and friction spreads bacteria, it is a good idea to allow for free drainage and air, because of which tight-fitting nightwear or lingerie should be avoided.

Being present with your partner at the moment increases your intimate connection and is a great way to bond with one another. Scrolling through social media or watching TV limits your chances of enjoying post-coital bliss so that’s not a very wise option. Regular STI testing is also an important part of sexual health, but you shouldn’t wait until after you’ve had sex to communicate openly and honestly with your partner about any concerns you may have.

Cleaning and possibly having a shower before sex, especially if the partner is uncircumcised is important to get rid of urinary tract infection causing bacteria.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

Also Read: Bleeding During Sex With No Pain: A Comprehensive Guide to Underlying Causes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

7 Myths Around Safe Sex Debunked!

Let’s Debunk Safe Sex Myths:

• Planning for sex ruins the mood

• You can figure out if someone has STI

• Practising safe sex means one of the partners has STD

• Practising safe sex means one of the partners is a drug-user

• Homosexuals don’t get STDs

• Taking the pill means practising safe sex

• Buying condoms are embarrassing

Why Is Safe Sex Necessary?

• Chlamydia
• HIV
• Herpes
• Gonorrhoea
• HPV or genital warts
• Hepatitis B
• Syphilis
• Scabies
• Pubic Lice
• Trichomoniasis

Tips To Have Pleasurable Safe Sex

1. Keep sexual protection handy. Have condoms available in your wallet or purse so they can be used without one having to go searching for them.
2. If your partner or you feel that condoms reduce sexual pleasure, put a drop of water-based lubricant at the tip of the condom for enhanced sensitivity. Involve condoms in foreplay.
3. Some types of safe sex activities offer an element of novelty and add spice to the bedroom life. Masturbating together, kissing, using sex toys, dry humping and safe oral sex are sexual activities that provide pleasure without any element of risk.
4. Avoid getting drunk as having too much alcohol suppresses our logical bend of mind and encourages one to make impulsive decisions.
5. Share with your partner if you are suffering from any STD. this will allow transparency and encourage both of you to practice safe sex.
6. Educate yourself about the risks and health repercussions associated with STDs. Anyone who has sex can fall prey to STD. Do not ostracize if someone has STD. it doesn’t mean they are dirty or cheap. Sexually transmitted infections are just like any other infections and they can be treated with medications.
7. If you suffer from any STD, take your medication on time and in the dosage recommended by the physician.
8. When getting involved with someone, both of you should get tested for STIs. Treat it not as an activity the dispel doubts about each other but as a sign of respect.

If You Have Had Unsafe Sex, You Need To:

1. Avoid vaginal or rectal douching. Douching is the process of washing these sensitive areas with water or some other fluids. This can irritate the delicate tissues and make one vulnerable to infections.
2. Take an emergency contraceptive pill to reduce the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. While the safe time zone is of 72 hours after unprotected sex, one can take the pill for up to 120 hours afterwards.
3. See your physician and get yourself tested for any STDs.
4. If you are a man who has had unprotected anal intercourse with another man, consider post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV. Call the PEP helpline for further details.