Female Condom: Getting to Know FC2

Yes, FC2 Female Condom is latex-free and made of a synthetic rubber called nitrile.

FC2 can be an exciting and sexually satisfying alternative for couples.

• FC2 can increase a woman’s sense of empowerment as she is taking the initiative to protect herself and her partner.
• FC2 Increases sexual stimulation because the material adjusts to body temperature and stays warm.
• External ring rubs against clitoris and increases pleasure for many women.
• Men do not have to have/ maintain an erection to use FC2. FC2 is a good option for men who are unable to maintain an erection with the male condom.
• Men do not have to withdraw right after ejaculation, which may lead to more intimacy when using FC2.
• FC2 can be inserted ahead of time so there are no interruptions to “spoil the mood”.
• Insertion of FC2 can be incorporated into sexual play, the partner can watch as it is put in place OR can help insert it.
• FC2 is a great choice for people with sensitivities to latex.
• FC2 can be used with any kind of lubricant (water or oil-based lubricants).
• FC2 provides an option for those times when a couple does not want to use the male condom (NOTE: Clients should never use a male condom and FC2 at the same time).
• FC2 is not tight or constricting around the penis; some men prefer FC2 to the male condom.
• The inner ring of FC2 can stimulate the tip of the penis during intercourse.
• The man does not have to worry about wearing a condom.
• FC2 provides effective dual protection, reducing the worry during sex about pregnancy and STIs/HIV.
• Increased sensation compared to latex male condom because nitrile is very thin.

Women and men can initiate the use of FC2, so it provides them with an additional choice to protect themselves from STIs, HIV and unintended pregnancies. It is not intended as a replacement for the male condom but rather as an additional option for both women and men.

New prototypes of female condoms are being developed but are still undergoing clinical trials and regulatory approvals. FC2 Female Condom®, manufactured by The Female Health Company (FHC), was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) in March 2009. In 2006, the World Health Organization (WHO) judged FC2 acceptable for procurement by United Nations agencies. FC2 Female Condom® also has other significant registrations including the CE mark in Europe.

FC2 Female Condom® is similar in length to a male condom. However, it is wider than a male condom as, once inserted, it lines the walls of the vagina and allows for movement of the penis inside the sheath. It also provides extra protection by covering part of the external female genitalia and the base of the penis.

• People who want to protect themselves and their partners from unintended pregnancy and STIs, including HIV/AIDS.
• People whose partners cannot or will not use the male condom.
• Women who are menstruating.
• Women who have recently given birth.
• Women who have had a hysterectomy.
• Women who are pre-menopausal or post-menopausal.
• People who are allergic or sensitive to latex.
• People who are HIV+ or have HIV+ partners.

Yes. FC2 Female Condom® does not interfere with menstruation and can therefore be used. However, FC2 should be inserted just before intercourse and removed soon after.

Yes, you can use FC2 Female Condom® when you are pregnant since the condom doesn’t move beyond the cervix. You can also use FC2 Female Condom® after recently giving birth.

Yes. FC2 lines the vagina and takes its natural shape.