What is a female condom?
The female condom, Femidom, is a barrier method of contraception. Like the male condom it can prevent pregnancy and also prevent infections. It works by lining the vagina and extends just outside. Female condoms are useful when a girl or woman wants to be in control of protecting herself from infections. Some boys or men prefer it if the woman uses a female condom because they say the sex feels better than when they are wearing a male condom.
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What are they made from?
Female condoms are made from thin polyurethane, a type of plastic that won't cause allergies. They are lubricated with a spermicide-free lubricant. To hold it in place, it has two flexible rings.
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When should they be used?
They can be put in any time before sex but you need to use a new one each time. Staff at shac, Clinic 1A, or the family planning clinic at The Laurels - Contraception & Sexual Health Service can explain how to use one. You have to be careful that the penis goes into the condom and doesn't slip in between the condom and the vaginal wall.
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Where can I get them from?
You can get female condoms at pharmacists, they are more expensive than male condoms, and they are available free from some clinics.
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How do I know my condom is safe and effective?
In the UK, we have two ways to tell if a make of condom has been properly tested and shown to be of high quality, the BSI Kitemark and the European CE mark. Also, before you use a female condom, you should check the expiry date on the condom package. If it is past its date, throw it away.
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What to remember.
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Use a new female condom every time.
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Choose only the best condoms. In the UK, choose ones that carry the European CE mark or the BSI Kitemark.
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If you are going abroad buy enough condoms before you leave. You know they will be good and safe and you won't have to look up the word for them in a guidebook.
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Don't use old condoms. Check the expiry date.
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Keep your condoms in a cool, dry place. Heat and damp can damage them. Carrying them around in your back pockets for long periods can damage them.
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Use the right type of condom for you.
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Keep any oily or greasy susbstance away from condoms for example massage oil, suncream or lotion).
More useful information at: www.avert.org/femcond.htm
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