Dear nekoneko,

Like other methods of birth control, the female condom has both advantages and disadvantages. Here are some possible disadvantages:

• The female condom may be noisy.
• It may slip into vagina during intercourse.
• It may be difficult to insert.

The female condom does not have any side effects, but it may cause irritation to the vagina or penis. However, female condoms are made of polyurethane, so they can be used by people who are allergic to latex condoms. Some people prefer female condoms to latex condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse because it is not necessary to keep an erection in order to use a female condom.

Used correctly and consistently, female condoms are up to 95 percent effective against pregnancy, and like latex condoms, they also reduce the risk of infection.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.