Contraception Corner: What You Need to Know About Female Condoms
Female condoms have many similarities with their conventional alternatives, but there are a few key things you should know before using them.
the proper use of condoms is one of the most effective contraceptive methods.
HOW DO Female CONDOMS WORK?
FERTILIZATION OCCURS WHEN A MALE’S SPERM PENETRATES A FEMALE’S EGG.
an unplanned pregnancy can be more consequential in the current political climate.
The implantation of a fertilized egg into the female’s uterus is considered a pregnancy. Condoms prevent pregnancy by providing a barrier that stops the sperm and egg from meeting.
With proper use, female condoms are 95 percent effective at preventing pregnancy and most sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
BACK TO TOP
What Do Female Condoms Look Like?
Female Condoms Are Inserted Before Intercourse.
Female condoms are generally structured with two rings.
The smaller, closed-off ring is used to insert the condom into your vagina. It is connected by a sheath to a larger ring that will remain outside of your body. Some brands have sperm-deactivating sponges or lubricants attached to the insertion side. If you want to use these, you need to be comfortable with the process of inserting the condom internally.
BACK TO TOP
Where Can You Find Female Condoms?
Female condoms are not as common as conventional condoms and are usually more expensive, so calling ahead or doing an online search beforehand is always a good idea.
Condoms can be bought in most grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies. Many reproductive health clinics, college campus clinics, and health departments provide them for free. Coupons and sales on condoms are also easy to find.
Most female condoms are made of latex or polyurethane. If you have a latex allergy, several brands offer latex-free options. Lambskin varieties do not provide as much protection against STIs. Many come with spermicide, a sperm-deactivating substance, which could be the cause of unexplained reactions. If you need help finding the aisle or deciding on a product, ask the pharmacist. Don’t let expense or embarrassment be a barrier to your health and safety.
BACK TO TOP
Does Anyone Actually Use Female Condoms?
Yes, and here are some advantages and disadvantages.
-
You don’t need the “protection pause” to put it on immediately before intercourse. This timing can vary, so always check your packaging.
-
If you have long or sharp nails, you have a higher chance of damaging the condom while opening it or putting it in. Read more about using condoms the right way.
-
Make sure that your partner is inserting into the condom. They should not go around the side or push the opening inside of you (especially while changing positions or during vigorous activity). Some brands also make noise during use.
-
You can remove the female condom by twisting the large ring closed and pulling it out.
What Do I Do if the Condom Fails?
THE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION (MORNING-AFTER PILL) AVAILABLE OVER THE COUNTER CAN BE USED WITHIN 3 DAYS.
If you need emergency contraception, take it as soon as possible.
These include Plan B®, Take Action®, and other generics. Ella® is another option that can be used within 5 days, but it requires a prescription and is not always easy to find. The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more likely it is to work.
The 95 percent effectiveness of female condoms is representative of perfect execution. The information in this article will guide you toward proper use, but accidents happen. Having an additional form of contraception (hormonal, IUD, etc.) will lower the likelihood of an unplanned pregnancy. Stay safe!
BACK TO TOP
Thanks for reading Plants to Pills™. Join Thee Tribe to get updates on future topics.
Have questions? Contact me here and I will try my best to answer them all. Which tips do you find most useful? Comment below.
Interested in taking a positive step in your health journey? Read Thee BeautyInLife™ Story and check out my store.
BACK TO TOP
Female condoms have many similarities with their conventional alternatives, but there are a few key things you should know before using them.