Method

A thin polyurethane sheath, shaped like a sock with flexible rings at each end. The ring at the closed end holds the pouch in place inside the vagina, while the ring at the open end remains outside the vagina. The pouch collects semen and prevents it from entering the vagina.

Success Rate

With typical use, 21 out of 100 women will become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, five out of 100 women will become pregnant in one year.

Benefits

Protects against STDs, including HIV, and you can get it without a prescription. Also, you can insert it up to eight hours before having intercourse. If you (or your partner) are allergic to latex and want to use condoms, this is a good alternative.

Drawbacks

The outside ring can slide inside the vagina during intercourse; also, caution should be used to make sure that the man’s penis doesn’t slip around the side of the condom. Can be awkward to use at first; must be removed right after intercourse, before you stand up, to prevent semen leakage.

How To Get It

Buy it at drugstores or supermarkets or get it from family planning clinics; the cost, $2 to $4 each.

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