The benefits of the female condom

Eve for Life

with Rosie Stone

Monday, May 10, 2010

Dear Eve,

What are the benefits of using a female condom vs a male condom? My boyfriend doesn't like condoms, and a friend told me to introduce the female condom to him.

F vs M

Dear F vs M,

It was good of your friend to suggest that your boyfriend be introduced to the female condom. If you are sexually active, condoms are presently the only barriers that are effective against the transmission of HIV [Human Immuno-deficiency Virus]. Correct and consistent condom use is 97 per cent effective against the sexual transmission of HIV.

One obvious benefit of using a female condom is that as a woman, you will be in charge of protecting yourself. It is not left up to your boyfriend to use or not use a condom if he likes or does not like using a condom. You should know that the female condom can be inserted up to eight hours before sex.

In practice, it is usually inserted between two and 20 minutes before sex. The female condom, like the male condom, should only be used once with each sex act. You should ensure that the female condom is not twisted when it enters your body. About one inch of the open end of the female condom will remain outside the body.

It is suggested that you practice inserting the condom and ensure that you are familiar with the procedure long before you try to introduce your boyfriend to its use. The more at ease and proficient you are, the more likely your partner will be to go along with its use.

To remove the female condom, close off the area with the seminal fluids by twisting the condom in a circular motion. Then pull out gently. Like the male condom, discard the used condom in the garbage bin and wash your hands.

Good luck.

Preventing HIV

Dear Eve,

Can HIV through sex really be prevented? I just feel that I am fighting a losing battle.

I am lost.

Dear Lost,

Yes it can. HIV transmission can be prevented. Remember that you have the option to abstain from sex until you feel that you are ready, that the time is right or appropriate for you. Another way of preventing HIV transmission is being faithful to one equally faithfully partner with both persons being uninfected. Also, correct and consistent condom use is 97 per cent effective against the sexual transmission of HIV.

It is also a good idea to get tested. When you know your HIV status it helps you in your decision-making process. Hopefully, you will always have prevention as an option.

You can send your questions or comments relating to HIV or related issues to info@eveforlife.org or write to Eve for Life, C/O Jamaica Observer.

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The benefits of the female condom