Only two female condoms — the FC1 female condom and its replacement, the FC2 female condom — have Food and Drug Administration approval in the U.S. 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.

The female condom helps prevent pregnancy. Among various benefits, the female condom:

• Is immediately effective
• Offers protection from sexually transmitted infections
• Is available without a prescription or special fitting
• Can be inserted up to eight hours before sex
• Rarely causes allergic reactions and has minimal risk of side effects
• Doesn’t require a partner’s cooperation or an erect penis as the male condom does

The female condom isn’t appropriate for everyone, however. You may want to consider another type of birth control if you:

• Are allergic to polyurethane or synthetic latex
• Are at high risk of pregnancy — you’re younger than age 30, you have sex three or more times a week, you’ve had previous contraceptive failure with vaginal barrier methods, or you’re not likely to consistently use the female condom
• Aren’t comfortable with the insertion technique
• Have vaginal abnormalities that interfere with the fit, placement or retention of the female condom

Up to 21 out of 100 women will become pregnant in a year of typical use of female condoms — possibly because they don’t use condoms every time they have sex.

The female condom has a higher failure rate than the male condom. Condom failure means it’s possible to contract sexually transmitted infections or become pregnant. The female condom may not protect you if:

• The condom breaks
• The condom slips out of the vagina
• The penis slips between the vagina and the outer surface of the condom
• The outer ring of the condom gets pushed into the vagina during sex

The female condom may also cause discomfort during insertion, a burning sensation, itching or a rash.

Before using a female condom, read the instructions carefully. If the condom is past its expiration date or you notice any signs of damage — such as small tears or holes — discard the condom and choose another.

Practice inserting the female condom before the first time you use it for sex. In addition, pay close attention when you first use the female condom to make sure it stays in place during sex. Never reuse a female condom.

Don’t use a female condom at the same time as a male condom. They can stick together, which might cause one or both condoms to break. The female condom isn’t currently FDA-approved for anal sex.

The female 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, loose fitting pouch with a ring on each end.

Currently the only female condom available in the U.S. is the FC2. Though called a “female” condom, the FC2 is not just for people who identify as female. People of all genders and sexual orientations use female condoms. These products are also referred to by non-gendered names including receptive condom, internal condom, and bottom condom.

FC2 should be disposed in the trash bin; not down the toilet. FC2 does not have to be removed immediately after a man ejaculates, unlike the male condom, but should be removed prior to standing to avoid the contents from spilling out.

1. Twist the outer ring to seal the condom to prevent the contents from spilling out.
2. FC2 may be pulled out and wrapped in the package it came in and/or in tissue.
3. FC2 should be disposed of in waste containers; not in the toilet.