| Abstract: | The female condom is a soft, pliable, prelubricated polyurethane pouch which is inserted into the vagina prior to having sexual intercourse. A flexible polyurethane ring encircles the condom's open end to prevent the entire pouch from entering the vagina during intercourse and to cover the vulva while allowing an entryway for the penis. A smaller flexible ring inside of the condom helps to position and hold the condom within the vagina. Studies have found the female condom to be as effective as male condoms or other female controlled barrier methods in preventing pregnancy. Moreover, the female condom is theoretically better than the male latex condom because of its lower leakage and slippage rates. A recent study in Thailand has shown that accessibility of the female condom can lead to a reduction in STIs among prostitutes, while Trussel et al. estimate that perfect use of the device may reduce the annual risk of acquiring HIV by more than 90% among women who have sexual intercourse twice weekly with an infected male. Women participants in several studies in Africa, however, have complained that the female condom is too long, and over-lubrication has been a reported problem in areas where dry sex is preferred. On the other hand, some users have found sexual intercourse using the female condom to convey the same level of physical sensitivity in the genital region as intercourse without using a barrier method. Evidence suggests that the female condom may be acceptable to men and women in certain types of sexual relationships, but unacceptable in others. |
