How to use a female condom is not the same as using a regular condom. When used properly, female condoms can prevent pregnancy and protect women from sexually transmitted infections.
The female condom is a contraceptive device that functions to hold sperm from entering the uterus during sex, so that pregnancy can be prevented. Not only that, when used properly, female condoms are also able to prevent sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, and hepatitis B.
How to Use the Female Condom
Female condoms that are now sold in various brands are condoms made of synthetic rubber. This condom comes with loops at both ends. An open loop is placed outside the vagina and a closed loop is inside the vagina.
The success rate of female condoms as a means of contraception can reach 95%, if used properly. Therefore, it is important to know and follow the instructions for using female condoms properly so as not to reduce their quality.
Here's how to use the correct female condom in order to provide maximum benefits:
- Open the condom package slowly and avoid opening the package with scissors or teeth to prevent tearing.
- Take the condom out of the package carefully.
- Pinch the loop at the closed end of the condom with your middle finger and thumb, then insert it into your vagina.
- Separate the lips of the vagina using the index finger, then press the condom as deep as possible until it touches the cervix.
- Make sure the loop at the open end of the condom stays outside the vagina and covers the area around the vaginal opening or vulva.
- Guide the penis well into the condom, not into the gap between the vagina and the condom.
- Immediately remove the female condom after having sex.
- Pull the condom out of the vagina slowly by turning the outer circle so that the semen does not spill.
- Throw the used condom in the trash and don't throw it in the toilet.
Things to Pay Attention to in Using Female Condoms
In addition to knowing how to use a female condom correctly, there are also things that must be considered when using it, namely:
- Always use a new female condom when having sex. After collecting semen, the female condom should be removed from the vagina and discarded immediately.
- The female condom can be inserted up to 8 hours before intercourse.
- Make sure the penis is not in contact with the vagina before putting the condom on.
- Avoid using female condoms together with male condoms because it can make both condoms stick together and break.
- Check the condom expiration date. Avoid using condoms that have expired because they can be less effective.
- Avoid female condoms that have signs of damage, such as rips or small holes.
- Use additional water-based lubricants and avoid oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum jelly, because it can cause the condom to tear easily.
By knowing how to use the female condom correctly, you can reduce your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or unwanted pregnancy. The female condom can also be an easy-to-use contraceptive alternative, if your partner is not willing to use a condom.
Although the price is relatively more expensive than male condoms, female condoms are relatively safer to use and rarely cause allergic reactions or side effects, especially in women who are allergic to latex.
In order to reduce the risk of pregnancy, you can combine the use of female condoms with hormonal contraception, such as birth control pills or injectable contraceptives.
If you still have questions about how to use a female condom or are confused about choosing the right contraceptive method, don't hesitate to consult a doctor.