Feminists For Choice

This week we have a simple, thoughtful question: Why are female condoms so expensive/hard to find?

As a sex educator, I am repeatedly asked this question—thanks for the chance to answer it in a broader format! I’m going to split this answer into three sections so everyone can get the scoop on female condoms: section one—female condoms 101, section two—why can’t I find them, section three—the good news, condoms coming your way!

1. So, what is a female condom? Its original intended use was as a barrier method that could be inserted into the vagina as an alternative to the standard condom worn on the penis. That being said, I would argue that “female condom” is a less than adequate name. From here on out, I’m going to call it the insertive condom as it can be inserted into the vagina, the anus, or other genital openings (such as the bonus hole—for more on that see Steph’s post) This allows the wearer to claim more control and agency in choosing and using birth control and STI protection. Those who love insertive condoms report several advantages other over other methods including: ability to insert the condom before things get heated (up to 8 hours), sex that feels “more natural,” and some report clitoral stimulation from the outer ring of the condom. Another plus—the insertive condom is made of polyurethane—no latex allergy concerns! Still confused about how it works? Check out this demo (no graphic images, I promise).

2. The number one reason that insertive condoms are hard to find is their expense. This is due mostly to high production costs influenced by material, packaging requirements, and location. The first version of the female condom available in the US was made in London, which can be an expensive place to make anything. A second reason that they have been so hard to find is their newness. Because they are still new to the safer-sex scene (less than 20 years), lots of people have no idea they exist, and/or are very resistant to trying them—there is still a lot of work to be done to introduce and familiarize people with the insertive condom. This reticence translates into people not buying them. This is one of the (many) times when access is directly related to economics; stores don’t want to carry an expensive product that they can’t sell.

3. Now the good news! The Female Health Company, which makes insertive condoms, has been working on lowering those production costs and making insertive condoms more widely distributed. In fact, earlier this month the “FC2”—the second generation of the insertive condom was released (after FDA approval last fall). The FC2 is about thirty percent cheaper than its first incarnation, and there is work being done to get them onto drug store shelves near you. If your local pharmacy isn’t selling them yet, or you are without a great feminist sex shop nearby (much like myself), your best bet is to order the condoms online. You might want to try Total Access Group (especially if you want to buy in bulk) or Amazon and other product outlets.

So, that’s the news, go out and getcha some, protected and armed with knowledge. Did I leave something out? I’d love to hear your questions and comments!

Lyndsey

Please send your questions to lyndsey@feministsforchoice.com.