The use of condoms by men can be traced back several thousand years. Ancient Egyptians used a linen sheath for protection against disease while the syphilis epidemic in Europe gave rise to the first published account of the condom.  Since the nineteenth century, condoms have been one of the most popular methods of contraception in the world.  Although a very useful tool to prevent transmission of sexually transmitted diseases and a useful birth control method, it left the decision making to the male.

The discovery of the birth control pill enabled women to prevent pregnancy while remaining sexually active. However the birth control pill is ineffective in protecting against sexually transmitted diseases. It is only with the invention of the female condom that women have had the power to protect themselves while enjoying a sexual encounter. A women may be able to use the female condom if her partner refuses to use a condom himself.  The female condom is a strong, soft, transparent sheath, with a flexible ring at each end, worn by a woman during sex. It provides a barrier between partners to prevent sharing of bodily fluids like semen, blood, or saliva. This helps ensure that sexually transmitted infections are not passed and pregnancy does not occur. Female condoms are 79-95% effective.

The female condom has many other advantages as well. The female condom can be inserted up to eight hours before intercourse and therefore does not interfere with that special moment. It is made of polyurethane and nitrile and these materials are less likely to cause an allergic reaction than latex. Also, they can be used with oil-based as well as water-based lubricants.  These materials are thin and conduct heat well, so sensation is preserved.

However, the female condom does have some disadvantages;  it can make a crinkling noise during sexual intercourse but adding more lubricant can lessen this problem. The outer frame is visible outside the vagina making some women self-conscious. The female condom is not difficult to use but it may take some practice to get used to. It is recommended that first-time users review instructions and diagrams and also take time to practice before actually using them during sex.

One of the biggest disadvantages is that they are not always easy to find.  In some countries these condoms are hardly available at all. But in countries where it is actively promoted, such as South Africa, Zimbabwe and Brazil, it is widely used.   In North America, these condoms are sold over-the-counter and are available in most drugstores. If you cannot find them locally, you can buy them on the internet. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) and The United Nations HIV/AIDS programs (UNAIDS) are encouraging wider access to the female condom as a method of preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. They recognize the importance and effectiveness of the female condom and are working to make it available globally.

Tags: Birth Control Method, female condom, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, Sexually Transmitted Infections