A female condom is a soft, loosefitting pouch that's inserted into the vagina before sex to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The female condom — also called an internal condom — is a birth control contraceptive device that acts as a barrier to keep sperm from entering the uterus. It protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections STIs. The female condom is a soft, loosefitting pouch with a ring on each end. One ring is inserted into the vagina to hold the female condom in place. The ring at the open end of the condom remains outside the vagina. The outer ring helps keep the condom in place and is also used for removal. The female condom can be used during anal sex, too. The FC1 female condom, which is made of plastic polyurethane , is no longer being produced. The FC2 female condom is made of synthetic latex — safe for those with allergies to natural rubber latex — and is pre-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant.

What are they?
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This document contains sexually graphic images and may not be suitable for some audiences. Condom Effectiveness. Section Navigation. Minus Related Pages. DO use a female condom from start to finish, every time you have vaginal sex. DO make sure there are no tears or defects.
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While female condoms internal condoms were originally designed for use in vaginal intercourse, some gay and heterosexual couples have used them for anal sex. There are no research studies on their efficacy in preventing the transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted infections during anal sex, but they form a barrier which should prevent semen and other bodily fluids from passing from one sexual partner to the other. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that the device is impermeable to HIV and other viruses. It is therefore reasonable to assume that using a female condom for anal intercourse will provide protection. This means they are less likely to cause allergic reactions and can be used with oil-based lubricants. The regulators now approve the device for both vaginal and anal sex. Research published in assessed the safety and user experience of the female condom for anal sex among gay men. Participants reported on their experiences with both female and male condoms. When using female condoms, participants were more likely to report condom slippage during use or withdrawal. Rates of condom breakage were similar for female and male condoms.
You may or may not realize that the female condom , a. The revamped version is called the FC2, standing for—you guessed it—female condom 2. Putting in a female condom can be a sensual way to set the mood.