Side effects of the female condom if it is not used properly

The female condom is a contraceptive device that is inserted into the vagina. This tool is quite effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, and relatively safe for most women. However, female condoms also have a number of side effects and drawbacks. What are some examples?

There are various risks of using a female condom

The female condom has the shape of a thin, elongated rubber pocket with two flexible rings at both ends.

If used properly, this tool can prevent the entry of sperm into the uterus so that pregnancy does not occur.

On the other hand, using the wrong or inappropriate female condom can have some side effects. The following include:

1. The effectiveness of condoms decreases

In general, female condoms are not as effective as male condoms at preventing pregnancy.

Its effectiveness ranges from 79-95 percent according to how it is used. This means that out of 100 women who have sex using a female condom, 5-21 of them have a chance of becoming pregnant.

Pregnancy can occur due to several factors. For example, the condom tears or leaves the vagina, the condom ring enters the vagina, or the penis gets into the gap between the vagina and the outside of the condom.

All of these conditions allow sperm to enter the uterus resulting in pregnancy.

2. Trigger latex allergy

Source: Healthline

Most female condoms are made of latex, and latex is a material that quite often triggers side effects in the form of allergies.

The risk of latex allergy due to female condoms is even higher, because the mucus layer in the vagina makes it easier for the proteins in the latex to enter the body.

Reporting from the Cleveland Clinic page, latex allergy is characterized by the appearance of red spots, bumps, and itching in the area of ​​the intimate organs.

A severe latex allergy reaction can also cause swelling. If you experience these symptoms, stop using condoms and consult a doctor.

3. Reducing sexual satisfaction

The female condom is generally not as practical as the male condom. Sometimes, the female condom may be difficult to fit or slip in the vagina, causing obstacles to sexual intercourse for some partners.

Another side effect of using a female condom is a reduced sensation during penetration and an annoying friction sound.

To fix this, you and your partner can use lubricants to make the condom more slippery and flexible.

4. Irritation of the vagina

The female condom can be irritating for some people. The causes can come from the latex material in the condom, friction between the vagina and the condom, and lack of lubrication during sex.

Vaginal irritation is usually characterized by itching that gets worse after sex.

Stop using the condom if you experience these symptoms. You may need to find a contraceptive method with a lower risk of irritation.

The female condom has various advantages and side effects of its own.

Although effective, this tool is not suitable for those of you who have allergies and are sensitive to latex. You may also feel uncomfortable if you are not used to using it.

As a solution, you can use alternative methods such as male condoms, spiral, birth control pills, or other methods that suit your condition.

Talk to your doctor to find the best contraceptive method for you with minimal risk of side effects.

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