REALITY VAGINAL CONDOM


Description: The Reality vaginal condom consists of a soft, loose-fitting polyurethane sheath and two flexible polyurethane rings. One of the rings lies inside at the closed end of the sheath and serves as an insertion mechanism and internal anchor. The other ring forms the external edge of the sheath and remains outside the vagina after insertion, protecting the labia and the base of the penis during intercourse. The condom lines the inner contours of the vagina. It is pre-lubricated and is intended for one-time use only. Like the male condom, the vaginal condom does not require fitting by a health care professional nor does it require precise placement over the cervix by the user.

Potential Advantages:
1. It is the first product which gives women the opportunity to help protect themselves from STDs and pregnancy
2. It provides broad coverage, covering the labia and the base of the penis, and providing greater protection against some STIs
3. Its polyurethane membrane is stronger than the latex membrane used in male condoms. It is soft and thin and resistant to oils, so that oil-based lubricants may be used with it.
4. It is less disruptive to the sex act because the woman may insert it several hours before use, and a male erection is not needed to remove the female condom.
5. The vaginal condom remains stable for up to five years in accelerated temperatures.
6. When compared to male condom, the probability of women being exposed to seminal fluid using the Reality condom was 3% and 11.6% when the male condom was used.
7. In direct examination of vagina following 74 episodes of intercourse by 15 women using the Reality condom, 0% sperm were observed.


Potential Disadvantages:
1. Cost: the female condom is at least 3 times as expensive as the male condom.
2. The outer ring hanging outside the vagina can be cumbersome.
3. The vaginal condom can make an odd noise during intercourse.
4. Women who are not used to inserting tampons or diaphragms, may have initial difficulty getting used to the insertion.