Lion Health
Complete Independent Contraception
Male and female condoms
The Female Condom
The female condom is an effective method of contraception if used correctly. It also
helps to protect against sexually transmitted infections.
What is the female condom?
The first female condom (Femidom®) was introduced in 1992. It is made of a soft plastic
material. It fits into the vagina and lines the inside walls. It therefore forms a barrier
between the man's sperm and the woman's womb.
About 5 women in 100 will become pregnant each year if condoms are used perfectly for
contraception. Correct use means using the condom every time you have sex. It is very
important to avoid any contact between the penis and the vaginal area before the condom
is inserted. The actual effectiveness of the female condom is closer to 80% effective
therefore 20 women in 100 will get pregnant with this method.
What are the advantages of the female condom?
It is easy to obtain and to use. It helps to protect against sexually transmitted infections.
It may help to protect against cancer of the cervix (neck of the womb). It is less likely to
split than the male condom.
What are the disadvantages of the female condom?
It is more expensive than the male condom. The outer ring may be pushed into the vagina
during sex. It then becomes less effective.
The Male Condom
What are condoms?
A condom covers the erect penis during sex and stops sperm from entering the woman's
vagina.
How effective is the male condom?
About 2 women in 100 will become pregnant each year if condoms are used perfectly for
contraception. Nearer to 20 women in 100 will become pregnant with normal (not perfect)
usage. When no contraception is used, more than 80 out of 100 sexually active women
become pregnant within one year.
If condoms are used less carefully then they become less effective. Correct use means:
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Using a condom every time you have sex.
Putting it on the penis before it touches the vaginal area.
The penis should also not touch the woman's vaginal area after the condom is taken
off.
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What are the advantages of the condom?
They are easy to buy and use, and are free from medical risks. They can be very reliable if
used carefully. They help to protect from sexually transmitted infections. They may help to
prevent cancer of the cervix (neck of the womb).
What are the disadvantages of the male condom?
Some people feel sex has to be interrupted to put a condom on. The condom may
sometimes split. If it splits, there is a risk of pregnancy.
If you would like further information or advice and male or female condoms please make an
appointment with a doctor. Alternatively go to www.fpa.org.uk