Instructions for Female Condom Use

Remember:

• The female condom does not include spermicide. If you want additional protection, you must add your own spermicide.
• Because it is made from polyurethane, you can use oil-based lubricants with the female condom.
• Use a new female condom each time you have sex.
• Use a female condom only once.
• For best results, store female condoms in a cool, dry place.
• Do not use a female condom that may be old or damaged.

Do not use a condom if:

• The package is broken.
• The female condom is brittle or dried out.
• The color is uneven or has changed.
• The female condom is unusually sticky.

Before Intercourse:

1. Remove the female condom from the package, and rub it between two fingers to be sure the lubricant is evenly spread inside the sheath. If you need more lubrication, squeeze two drops of the extra lubricant included in the package into the condom sheath.

2. The closed end of the female condom will go inside your vagina. Squeeze the inner ring between your thumb and middle finger. Insert the ring into your vagina. Using your index finger, push the sheath all the way into your vagina as far as it will go. It is in the right place when you cannot feel it. Do not worry, it can't go too far.

NOTE: The lubrication on the female condom will make it slippery, so take your time to insert it.

3. The ring at the open end of the female condom should stay outside your vagina and rest against your labia (the outer lip of the vagina). Be sure the condom is not twisted.

4. Once you begin to engage in intercourse, you may have to guide the penis into the female condom. If you do not, be aware that the penis could enter the vagina outside of the condom's sheath. If this happens, you will not be protected.

During Intercourse:

1. Remove and insert a new female condom if: the condom rips or tears during insertion or tears during insertion or use, the outer ring is pushed inside, the penis enters outside the pouch, the condom bunches inside the vagina, or you have sex again.

After Intercourse:

1. You can safely remove the female condom at any time after intercourse. If you are lying down, remove the condom before you stand to avoid spillage.

2. Throw the female condom away. Do not reuse it.

© 2007 EngenderHealth