DefinitionThe female condom, like the male condom, is a barrier device used for birth control.Alternative NamesCondoms for womenInformationThe female condom protects against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV. However, it is not thought to be as effective for protecting against STDs as the male condom.The female condom is made of a thin, strong plastic called polyurethane. It fits inside the vagina.The condom has a ring on each end. The ring that is placed inside the vagina fits over the cervix, covering it with the protective rubber material. The other ring, which is open, rests outside of the vagina and covers the vulva.HOW EFFECTIVE IS IT?The female condom is estimated to be between 75% and 82% effective. The reasons for failure are the same as those for t