Invented in the 1980’s and approved by the FDA in 1993, female condoms have yet to garner the amount of mainstream attention as their cousin, the male condom. Yet these female condoms were made to give women a way to protect themselves from HIV in the early 90’s, a turbulent time when female-initiated protection was much needed. Originally called FC1, the female condom was used – and loved – around the world, except for in the United States. Here, unfortunately, it was deemed frivolous and ineffective, despite promotion from celebrities such as Drew Barrymore. For whatever reason, the FC1 just wasn’t gaining the traction it deserved.

Cue FC2. The new and improved female condom received a much warmer welcome, and for good reason. Featuring latex free material, the ability to warm to body temperature, and the option to use it with water or oil-based lubricants (something that can’t be done with most traditional condoms), the revamped FC2 gave previously hesitant users a new perspective on ways to take control of their sexual health. Just as effective as FC1, FC2 is becoming more and more popular thanks to campaigns around the U.S.

The process of using a female condom is a simple one that most people will be able to do with just a few practice tries (and we all remember practicing with a traditional condom and a banana in school). From opening the package to disposing of the female condom after use, this step-by-step guide will give you the lowdown on how to use the FC2 safely and effectively.

1

OPEN THE PACKAGE

Yes, this seems like the most basic of steps, and we have no doubt that you are more than capable of opening a condom package. However, it’s important to do this carefully so you don’t tear the female condom. On the upper right corner of the package, locate the notch and tear downwards. Don’t use scissors or a knife to open it – you could accidentally snip a piece of the condom and make it ineffective or entirely unusable.

2

INSPECT THE CONDOM

It’s important to inspect any kind of condom before use. Take a moment to check the length of the female condom as well as the closed portion of the smaller ring for rips or tears. Used correctly, the female condom provides a 95 to 98% rate or pregnancy and STI prevention, but just one tear can significantly raise your risk factor. If you do find a problem with the condom, dispose of it and open a new one. Safe sex is the best sex!

3

HOLD AND SQUEEZE

While a traditional condom is a tad more simple to use (open, cover, roll), the female condom needs to be held a certain way for proper placement. There is one closed end and one open end (similar to a traditional condom), with the opened end being the larger of the two rings: this is where the penis will be inserted With your thumb and index finger, squeeze the small, closed ring. It will become long and narrow, making it easier to insert into your vagina.

4

INSERT THE FEMALE CONDOM

Think of it like inserting a tampon or menstrual cup – the position you use to do that will probably work well for using a female condom, too. You can squat, prop one leg up, sit, or lie down to do this – it’s completely up to you. Once in position, push the inner ring into your vaginal opening as far as it will go. The FC2 can be a little slippery – just take it out and try again if you need to. When properly placed, it will be near your pubic bone, resting – not rubbing against or hitting – your cervix. If it’s not inserted correctly, you may feel some discomfort. Simply shift the ring using your fingers until it sits comfortably. The outer ring will be visible outside of your vagina.

Important Note: Practice, practice, practice! Inserting the female condom can be tricky at first, but practicing before it’s time to have sex will give you the confidence you need to do it correctly!

5

INSERT PENIS INTO
OPEN END OF CONDOM

Now it’s time for your partner to insert his penis into the open end of the female condom. His penis goes through the ring and into the sleeve. If, at this point, you feel any discomfort, have your partner remove his penis so that you can shift the inner ring until it sits in the correct position.

6

REMOVE AND DISPOSE OF

When you are finished using the condom, remove it by twisting the outer ring closed and pulling gently. It should slide right out. Be sure to dispose of it by wrapping it back in the original package or some tissue and throwing it away.

Like with anything, practice makes perfect. Try using the female condom a few times to get the hang of it. The benefits of using a female condom far outweigh the amount of effort it takes to learn how to use it correctly!