A female condom is a thin polyurethane or latex condom with a flexible ring on each end. The smaller top ring sits deep inside the vagina and has a closed end. The larger ring at the open end stays outside the vaginal opening during intercourse.

The condom stops a man’s sperm from entering the vagina. Pregnancy cannot happen if sperm cannot join with an egg. It also protects you against most sexually transmitted infections. The good news is you can insert the female condoms into your vagina up to 8 hours before you are going to have sex.

High Five! Five steps to insert the female condom

1. Find a comfortable position. You can stand with one foot on a chair, sit on the edge of a chair or toilet, lie down, or squat.
2. Squeeze together the sides of the inner ring at the closed end of the condom and insert it into the vagina like a tampon.
3. Push the inner ring as deep into the vagina as far as it can go — ideally until it reaches the cervix.
4. Pull out your finger and let the outer ring hang about an inch outside the vagina.
5. When sex is over pull out the condom (using the outer ring) and bin it.

Some men also say that they prefer female condoms over the male condoms because they are not so tight and restricting on the penis. Another benefit of using female condoms is that it makes sex during menstruation, if you choose to do so, safer and cleaner.

You can get female condoms at all government clinics and health centers and community organisations working in prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

A female condom gives the girl the power. It is a good idea to practice before you use it with a partner for the first time. Be sure you use a new one each time you have sex.

Article adapted from www.safeguardyoungpeople.org

Do you know how to use a femidom? This reader didn't, read her story below!

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