The female condom is a polyurethane “pouch” worn inside the vagina to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It has a ring on each end, one open and one closed, and is connected by a condom-shaped tube. The closed ring is inserted into the vagina and fits around the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus. The other ring stays just outside the vaginal opening. This is where the penis is inserted during vaginal intercourse.

Just like male condoms, female condoms can only be used once. Never use a female and male condom together. They could rub together and rip, and you’ll end up with no protection.

When used perfectly, the female condom prevents pregnancy about 95 percent of the time. The typical (real world) rate is a lot lower—79 percent—because people don’t always use them correctly.

Just like male condoms, female condoms only prevent the transmission of STDs that are passed through body fluids—HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis (if blood is present). Some STDs, like herpes and genital warts, are spread through skin-to-skin contact. A female condom may not cover areas of the skin that are infected, such as the scrotum, labia or even the inside of the thigh. So condoms –both male and female—may not protect against these kinds of infections.

The female condom is sometimes referred to as the internal condom, because it is worn internally (inside of the vagina during vaginal sex, or inside of the anus during anal sex). To insert the condom anally, someone would remove the closed ring from the condom, place the condom over the erect penis and insert the penis inside the anus during anal sex. The other ring stays just outside the anal opening.

The good news is that there are few side effects from female condoms. Some say the female condom slips or is uncomfortable during sex, especially if the rings rub or pull against the penis or the vagina. Some, though, say the female condom stimulates the clitoris, which can increase pleasure during intercourse. Not many people are allergic to polyurethane, but if you are, using a female condom could cause itching and irritation.

The female/internal condom is sold in drugstores and supermarkets without a prescription. They cost about three dollars each.
For more information, read about the female condom.