Female condom

A short-acting method of contraception

The female condom is a barrier contraception method for preventing pregnancy and STIs.

When used correctly, condoms are highly effective. Condoms are also the only contraceptive method that protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and syphilis.

Effectiveness

98% when used correctly - Not using the condom correctly can increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy and STIs.

Availability

Female condoms are available at all our centres, as well as pharmacies across Zimbabwe.

Pricing

Please contact our team for more information about pricing.

If you're starting to use contraception for the first time, or thinking about using a new method, it's a good idea to have a full consultation.

Call us toll-free for a confidential chat

0808 00 19/20

Get in touch

Find our locations that offer contraception and family planning services.

Advantages of a female condom

The female condom can offer several advantages as a method of contraception.

You only need to use them during sex
They help to protect both partners from some sexually transmitted infections, including HIV
There are no serious side-effects from using condoms
Female condoms are easily available.

Things to consider

When deciding if the female condom is right for you, here are a few quick facts you should consider:

Female condoms can sometimes get pushed completely inside during sex or come out, which is why they are not always as good as some other forms of contraception and may require some practice to use correctly
If the condom breaks or tears, pushes inside or falls off then you may need to use an emergency contraception immediately afterwards.

Other contraceptive methods at a glance

Oral contraceptive pill

The contraceptive pill is a short-acting contraceptive method.

Contraceptive pills contain hormones, similar to those naturally produced by a woman’s body. The pill needs to be taken at the same time every day to effectively prevent pregnancy. It’s ability to prevent pregnancy depends on a person using it correctly.

Contraceptive implant

The implant is a highly effective, long-acting and reversible method of contraception.

It consists of either 1 or 2 small plastic rods that are placed in the upper arm and, depending on the product used, is effective at preventing pregnancy for 3 to 5 years.

Injectable

The injectable or contraceptive injection is an effective, long-acting and reversible method of contraception.

It works by releasing a hormone that stops eggs being released by the body. Injectables are highly effective, lasting 2 to 3 months (depending on the type used), but women must remember to return for another injection around this time or risk not being protected from pregnancy.

Intrauterine device

The IUD is a highly effective (99%), long-acting and reversible method of contraception.

It is a small, T-shaped device that is made from plastic and copper and works by stopping a man's sperm from meeting an egg and/or by stopping an egg implanting in the uterus. The procedure for inserting an IUD is simple, usually only taking a few minutes by a trained person.

Tubal ligation

Tubal ligation is a permanent, irreversible contraceptive solution for women.

It is suitable for women who are sure they don't want anymore children.

The method involves a short surgical procedure, performed by a highly trained doctor that prevents a woman's eggs and the man's sperm meeting, so a pregnancy can't occur.

Vasectomy

A surgical procedure for providing a permanent contraceptive solution for men.

A vasectomy is a contraceptive method suitable for men who are sure they don't want anymore children.

It's a popular method of family planning chosen by millions of men worldwide. It's safe, effective and offers a permanent solution to contraceptive need.