How To Use a Female Condom

Although male condoms are far more commonly used, female condoms make a good alternative if the male can't or won't use a condom.

Step 1  

Open the condom package carefully; gently tear at the notch in the corner with your fingers only. Do not use scissors, teeth, fingernails or a knife to open.

Step 2  

Examine the condom. The female condom will have a larger ring (the "outer ring") at the open end and a smaller ring (the "inner ring") at closed end.

Step 3  

Hold the condom at the closed end, grasp the flexible inner ring with the thumb and second or middle finger and squeeze it so its long and narrow.

Step 4  

Get into a position that is comfortable for insertion.

Step 5  

Insert the inner ring gently into the vagina just far enough so it won't fall out.

Step 6  

Use the index finger inside the condom to push the inner ring up as far as it will go. Make sure the condom is not twisted and that the outer ring remains outside the vagina. The condom is now in place and ready to use.

Step 7  

Guide the penis carefully into the opening of to be sure that it does not enter on the side, between the sheath and the vaginal wall.

Step 8  

Remove the female condom by grasping the outer ring and gently twisting it so the semen stays inside. Gently pull it out and throw it away.

Tips

• Practice inserting the condom in different positions so you get the hang of it and so you find which position your most comfortable with.
• If you find the inner ring uncomfortable, you can try to position it so its tucked out of the way behind the cervix.
• Add lubricant if the condom makes any noise.

Warnings

• Dispose of used condoms in the garbage - do not flush it down the toilet.
• Never use a male and female condom at the same time. The friction may cause one or both of the condoms to slip or tear, or the outer ring being pushed into the vagina.
• As with male condoms, never reuse female condoms either
• ALWAYS use a condom, if your partner(s) refuses to use one, simply say that you won't have sex until they decide to use a condom.