Female condoms.

a. Female condoms look like a combination of a diaphragm and a condom.

b. The condoms are composed of soft polyurethane, with one end closed, one end open.

c. They come with extra lubricant.

d. Insertion: The closed ring is inserted into the vagina and covers the cervix. The open end covers the labia and base of penis

Position of female condom

e. Removal: The open end is twisted to contain semen and the condom is discarded; it should never be reused.

f. Efficacy: There is a 5.1% pregnancy failure rate with perfect use; failure is 12.4% with average use. The FDA labeling states a 25% failure rate.

g. Advantages.

(1) Highly effective protection against HIV (94% protection) and all other sexually transmitted diseases

(2) May be used if male partner refuses to use a condom