Where to get women condoms

Female condoms are an alternative to male condoms as a barrier method for safe sex and contraception. They are worn during vaginal sex to prevent semen the fluid that contains sperm getting to the uterus.

Condoms are the only contraception that prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections STIs. The female condom sold in Australia FC2 is a thin, soft, nitrile pouch which you put in the vagina before sex. It is 17 cm long and has two flexible rings, one at each end - the inner and outer ring. The inner ring is closed and rests inside the vagina. The outer ring is open, and stays outside the vagina, pushed flat against the labia folds of skin on outside of the vagina, also sometimes called 'lips'.

The outer ring acts as an anchor to stop the condom from being pushed inside the vagina during sex. Just like the male condom, each female condom should only be used once. You should use a new one each time you have sex. The female condom covers the cervix, lines the vagina and protects the vulva entrance to the vagina providing a barrier between the penis and the vagina.

It stops the exchange of body fluids semen and vaginal fluids. The female condom is already lubricated - extra lubricant can be used if desired. The female condom may also cause discomfort during insertion, a burning sensation, itching or a rash. Before using a female condom, read the instructions carefully. If the condom is past its expiration date or you notice any signs of damage — such as small tears or holes — discard the condom and choose another.

Practice inserting the female condom before the first time you use it for sex. In addition, pay close attention when you first use the female condom to make sure it stays in place during sex. Never reuse a female condom. Don't use a female condom at the same time as a male condom.

They can stick together, which might cause one or both condoms to break. The female condom isn't currently FDA-approved for anal sex.

To use a female condom, one ring is inserted into the vagina before sex to hold the condom in place. The ring at the open end of the female condom remains outside the vagina. Insert the female condom. Squeeze the ring at the closed end of the pouch with your middle finger and thumb and insert it into your vagina like a tampon.

Place your index finger inside the condom and push the ring up as far as it will go. Don't allow the condom to twist. Make sure the outer ring remains outside the vagina, extending about 1 inch or about 2. You can place the female condom inside your vagina up to eight hours before sex. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version.

Sections for Female condom About. Overview Female condom Open pop-up dialog box Close. Female condom A female condom is a soft, loosefitting pouch that's inserted into the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Insertion of a female condom Open pop-up dialog box Close.

Insertion of a female condom To use a female condom, one ring is inserted into the vagina before sex to hold the condom in place.

Share on: Facebook Twitter. A female condom can be put in up to eight hours before sex. Who can use female condoms Most people can safely use condoms. However, they may not be the most suitable method of contraception for women who do not feel comfortable touching their genital area.

Advantages and disadvantages of female condoms It is important to consider which form of contraception is right for you and your partner. Take care to use condoms correctly, and consider using other forms of contraception for extra protection. Can anything make condoms less effective? Sperm can sometimes get into the vagina during sex, even when using a condom. This may happen if:. Although female condoms when used correctly offer reliable protection against pregnancy, using an additional method of contraception will protect you against pregnancy if the female condom fails.

If a female condom slips or fails, you can use emergency contraception to help to prevent pregnancy. Using lubricant Condoms come ready lubricated, to make them easier to use, but you may also like to use additional lubricant. This is particularly advised when using male condoms for anal sex to reduce the chance of the condom splitting.

Any kind of lubricant can be used with female polyurethane condoms. If you are using male latex condoms, do not use oil-based lubricants, such as body oil, petroleum jelly or creams like Vaseline , as they can damage the latex and make the condom more likely to split. Risks There are no serious risks associated with using female condoms. Where to get female condoms Everyone can get condoms for free, even if they are under They are available from the following places in your local area:.

Some places might only offer male condoms — you can ask the staff whether they provide free female condoms. You can also buy male and female condoms from:. If you buy condoms online, make sure you buy them from a pharmacist or other legitimate retailer. Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with young people under The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first.