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Frequently Asked Questions

Get quick, trustworthy answers about FC2 female condoms, Harmony oral dams, STI prevention, and UltuCup menstrual cups.

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FC2 FAQs

No. However, if you experience noise during sex and it bothers you, you can add extra lubricant.

No. Reuse of any condom is not recommended โ€“ external or internal. A new condom should be used every time you have intercourse.

  • Yes: FC2 Female Condom can be used with the pill, injections, IUD contraceptives, post-sterilization and post-vasectomy to protect against STIs, including HIV.
  • No: FC2 cannot be used with the diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge, or NuvaRingยฎ as the inner ring of FC2 fits into the same place at the cervix.

No. If the FC2 gets pushed all the way into the vagina, just relax, insert your finger into the vaginal opening, locate the ring, and pull the FC2 out. Throw out the FC2 that was pushed inside the vagina, open a new FC2, and try again. The FC2 remains in the vagina during use.

It is important that the penis is guided into the center of FC2 and not between the vaginal wall and the outer side of FC2. If the penis does enter incorrectly, STOP and start over, with additional lubrication, if necessary.

STOP. Remove FC2. Insert a new female condom according to the directions.

FC2 Condom is inserted correctly when the inner ring is pushed past the pubic bone. The outer ring and part of the condom is flat around the opening of the vagina, covering the external genitalia. You can check that the condom is in place by inserting your index or middle finger into the vagina past the pubic bone. You can feel your pubic bone by curving your index or middle finger when it is a couple of inches inside your vagina. You should be able to feel that the inner ring is past the pubic bone on the front wall of the vagina.

FC2 Female Condomยฎ is similar in length to a male condom. However, it is wider than a male condom and therefore not constricting on the penis, which many men find pleasurable. Once inserted, it lines the walls of the vagina and allows for movement of the penis inside the sheath.

FC2 condom can be inserted in advance of sexual intercourse and does not need to be taken out immediately after intercourse. While most women insert FC2 between 2 and 20 minutes in advance, the FC2 Female Condom can actually be inserted up to 2 hours in advance.

Yes, FC2 Female Condom is latex-free and made of nitrile. ย?Nitrile is thinner, but stronger, than latex.

No, as the friction caused by the two condoms can lead to tearing of either one or both of the condoms. Also, using one condom (male or female) provides equal protection to both partners. Never use more than one condom at a time.

FC2 Condoms are available through Pamcoโ€™s website on the retail page.

  • FC2 is a strong, soft, nitrile sheath or pouch 17 cm (6.5 inches-the same as the male condom) in length. Nitrile polymer (non-latex), is thin and strong, and warms to body temperature.
  • FC2 is made of a nitrile sheath and outer ring, and a polyurethane inner ring.
  • FC2 contains a silicone-based lubricant but additional lubrication can be used. FC2 can be used with oil- and water-based lubricants. FC2 does not contain spermicidal additives, preservatives, paraben and is gluten free.
  • The FC2 Female Condom is a proven non-hormonal, latex-free contraception device that offers dual protection.
  • FC2 is aย?Class IIIย?Medical Device.
  • FC2 is indicated for prevention of both unintended pregnancy and STIs (including HIV).
  • The FC2 Female Condom is non-allergenic and contains no latex.

Harmony Dams FAQs

Consider this:ย?If youโ€™ve had 2 sexual partners, each of which had 3 sexual partners who had 4 sexual partners apieceโ€ฆ Youโ€™ve had indirect sexual contact with at least THIRTY-TWO people โ€” most of whom youโ€™ve never met.

A dam is a thin 6×10 inch sheet of latex or polyisoprene. As with all safer sex products, before using always check the expiry date, make sure there are no tears or defects, and donโ€™t open with scissors or your teeth.

A dental dam is a barrier but the material is thin enough for you to be able to feel your partner’s touch through it. It can also become a part of foreplay. Make protection sexy!

Donโ€™t use spermicide with the dental dam, as it may cause irritation.

Keep dams in a cool, dry place, away from heat or direct sunlight.

Simply dispose of the dam in a trash can after use. DO NOT flush a dam down the toilet.

Yes. Harmonyยฎ Dams have a 3-year expiry from date of manufacture. Always check any safer sex products for an expiry date before using.

No, it is not recommended to create a makeshift dam. Cutting a dam from a condom does not give you the proper area coverage and also creates tears and uneven edges that make it difficult to hold in place, thereby allowing for the transmission of pathogens. Plastic Wrap is not an option either as it is important to note that plastic wrap is not specifically designed for this purpose, and its effectiveness in preventing STIs is not well-studied.ย?As plastic wrap is permeable, it does allow some exchange of gases and moisture.

No. Oral barriers are single use only. Do not reuse a dam. Do not flip a dam over. Always use a new dam when switching from oral/anal to oral/vaginal.

Yes, but if using lubricant, use a proper water based personal lubricant. DO NOT USE oil-based products (petroleum jelly, mineral oil, baby oil, vegetable oil or similar substances) as they may damage the dam.

Make sure to put a dam in place BEFORE you start oral sex. And keep it there until youโ€™re finished.

Dams are easy to use. Open the package carefully. Do not use sharp objects, fingernails or teeth to open package. Remove the dam from the package & lay it flat to cover either the vagina & clitoris or the entire anus. When engaging in oral sex hold the edges of the dam to ensure it stays in place.

Yes, as long as you use a latex free option. Harmonyยฎ Dams offer a polyisoprene option for those with latex allergies and sensitivities.

Harmonyยฎ Dams create a physical barrier between the mouth and the genitals or anus, aiding in the prevention of the exchange of bodily fluids that can cause STIs.

A dam/oral barrier isย?a thin sheet, usually made of latex or polyisoprene, used as a barrier when engaging in oral/vaginal and oral/anal sex to help reduce the transmission of bodily fluids, harmful pathogens & sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

STI FAQs

The next steps after a positive test result will depend on which particular STI you have. 

  • Consider getting tested for other STIs
  • For those which are treatable, it is a round of antibiotics.ย? For other STIs, there are different treatment options that help with outbreaks and symptoms.ย?
  • Either way, it is crucial that you let your sexual partners know about the positive test result.ย? Your care partners can help guide you how to approach the conversation.ย?
  • Follow up with your doctor and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure the infection is cleared.ย?
  • Moving forward practice safer sex.ย?
  • Consider getting tested for other STIs

Common STI tests includeย?blood tests for infections like HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis, urine tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea, and swab tests for various STIs like herpes and HPV.ย?These tests detect the presence of bacteria, viruses, or antibodies in bodily fluids.

Barriers such as condoms and oral barriers (aka dams) are a great tool for safer sex practices to help reduce the transmission of the pathogens that cause STIs. Make sure you use them consistently and correctly for the most effective protection.

Common STIs includeย?Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Trichomoniasis, HIV, Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Hepatitis B, and Human papillomavirus (HPV).ย?

You are sexually active:ย?This is the most basic reason, as STIs are transmitted through sexual contact.ย?

You had unprotected sex:ย?Condoms and other barrier methods help prevent STI transmission, but if they are not used or fail, testing is crucial.ย?

You or your partner(s) have symptoms:ย?Common symptoms include unusual discharge, sores, itching, or pain during urination.ย?

You know your current or past partner(s) has or had an STI:ย?This increases your risk of infection and the need for testing.ย?

You or your partner(s) have multiple partners:ย?This increases the chance of exposure to STIs.ย?

You or your partner(s) have shared needles:ย?Needle sharing can transmit STIs.ย?

You have a new sexual partner:ย?Testing before starting a new relationship is a good practice.ย?

It has been a while since your last test:ย?Regular testing, especially every 3-6 months for those with multiple partners, is recommended

You can get tested for STIs at various locations, includingย?your primary healthcare provider (doctor or nurse practitioner), a sexual health clinic, or a walk-in clinic.ย?Public health units also offer STI testing services.ย?Additionally, some universities and colleges have their own health services that provide STI testing for students.ย?

Getting tested is the only way to know for sure if you have a sexually transmitted infection.

Asymptomatic means that you can still have an infection without showing any symptoms.

Symptoms vary depending upon the type of STI. Some symptoms can appear as sores on your genitals or mouth, discharge from the sores or your genitals, pain or itching, pain when urinating (peeing). But many STIs are asymptomatic.

No. STIs may also be transmitted during oral/anal or oral/vaginal sex, from mother to child before or during birth, breastfeeding and even kissing or close body contact depending upon the type of STI.

STIs are caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites, depending on the infection.

STIs are infections that are passed from person to person through sexual contact, including oral sex.

UltuCup FAQs

Yes, you sure can. You can wear your UltuCup for up to 12 consecutive hours including overnight.

Thatโ€™s a no go. You will have to remove your cup before sex.

UltuCup is a perfect option for swimming during your period. The UltuCup forms a seal that creates a barrier between you and the water. No absorption of chemicals or bacteria and no unwanted soggy tampons.

The UltuCup was designed to move with your body, so you can do any sports or activities you would normally do.

Store your clean and dry cup in the cotton storage bag provided. Do not store the UltuCup in a plastic bag or airtight container.

If you cannot wash your cup with soap and water, wash your hands thoroughly before entering the stall, empty the contents in the toilet and simply use a dry or damp tissue to clean the cup. At the next convenient time, clean the cup as instructed.

To clean your UltuCup use mild, unscented soap and warm water*. Soaps created with harsh chemicals may cause your cup to deteriorate and cause internal irritation.

Tip: The tiny holes located below the rim of your UltuCup must stay clear at all times. To do this gently stretch each hole and hold it under warm water. *Do not use harsh chemicals, scented soap, antibacterial soap, dish soap, hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, bleach, hydrogen peroxide, pre-moistened wipes, vinegar, oil-based soap, castile/peppermint soap, or tea tree oil.

You can wear your UltuCup for up to 12 consecutive hours.

Want to know the exact measurement of our cups or how much flow they can hold? Then check out this handy chart.


UltuCup Model 0UltuCup Model 1UltuCup Model 2
FlowLight to heavyLight to heavyLight to heavy
Volume0.85 oz / 25ml1 oz / 30 ml1.35 oz / 40 ml
Full Height2.37 in / 60 mm2.75 in / 70 mm2.75 in / 70 mm
Cup Height (no stem)2.07 in / 52.5 mm2.45 in / 62.2 mm2.45 in / 62.2 mm
Stem Length0.3 in / 7.6 mm0.3 in / 7.6 mm0.3 in / 7.6 mm
Rim Diameter1.67 in / 42 mm1.67 in / 42 mm1.81 in / 46 mm

We do not recommend the use of lubricants as over time they can deteriorate your cup. You can use water to help with insertion.

When inserted properly, your UltuCup should be sensation-free and leak-free. If you are experiencing leakage or sensation while wearing your cup, adjust your insertion and placement methods until you feel comfortable.

Betcha never been asked your cervix heightโ€ฆ but this is really important when using a menstrual cup! Knowing your cervix height will help you determine whether you need a Model 0, Model 1 or Model 2.



HOW TO MEASURE THE LENGTH OF YOUR CERVIXโ€ฆ

  • Find a comfortable position that will allow you to easily reach your cervix. Try sitting on the toilet, putting one leg up on the edge of the bathtub or squatting.
  • Make sure to wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Insert your index finger into your vagina and slide it upward until you feel your cervix. Your cervix is the shape of a small doughnut and it feels a bit like the tip of your nose.
  • Take note of how far your finger goes inside the vagina when you reach the cervix. It is important to consider the โ€˜knuckle ruleโ€™.

The Knuckle Rule

Screenshot

Low Cervix

If your fingertip can feel your cervix at the first knuckle or first bend in your finger inside your vagina, you have a low cervix. While our Model 0 is meant for a lower cervix, if you find your cervix at the first knuckle point, our UltuCup Model 0 may be too long to fit your needs. We recommend the UltuCup Model 0 if your fingertip can reach the cervix between the first knuckle and middle knuckle.
Screenshot

Medium Cervix

If your fingertip can feel your cervix when your 2nd knuckle is inside your vagina, or roughly half way up your finger, you have a medium or average height cervix. All model sizes are an option depending on age and if you have given birth vaginally or by C-section.
Screenshot

High Cervix

If your fingertip can feel your cervix when more than your 2nd or 3rd knuckle is inside the vagina or can barely reach your cervix, you have a high cervix. We recommend UltuCup Model 1 or Model 2 depending on age and if you have given birth vaginally or by C-section.
  • Yes! UltuCup is ideal for menstruating people of all ages, shapes and experience levels.
  • In fact, you can start using a menstrual cup as soon as you get your period. You might need to practice a bit more in the beginning. While virginity is not an obstacle, the vaginal muscles are tighter and insertion can be a challenge until your body has adapted to accommodate the cup.
  • Based on the industry standard we would recommend purchasing a Model 2 for individuals who have delivered vaginally or by C-section.
  • We do understand that everyoneโ€™s anatomy is different and that our sizing guide may not reflect your individual needs. ย?
  • The UltuCup Model 0 is designed for individuals with a lower cervix or those who feel that Model 1 is too long.
  • Model 0 has the same rim diameter as the Model 1, but is shorter in height.
  • We recommend the Model 0 for beginners, but some users may find Model 1 cup size to be preferable.
  • UltuCup Model 0ย?is perfect for beginners 18 years or younger or if you have a lower cervix.
  • UltuCup Model 1 is best suited for people who are 19-30 years old; who have never given birth (vaginally or by C-section).
  • UltuCup Model 2ย?is best for people over 30 years old or for those who have given birth (vaginally or by C-section).

Sparkles and bright colours are great for unicorns but NOT your body. Your menstrual cup is made from 100% medical grade silicone. Itโ€™s free of dyes, plastic, BPA, latex, rubber, and bad stuff.

Like learning how to use contact lenses, it might seem daunting at first, but before you know it, using your UltuCup will become effortless and natural. We recommend practicing using both fold methods to see which one works best for you.

The UltuCup is made of 100% medical grade silicone, making it a soft and flexible period care option. When inserted correctly, UltuCupโ€™s flexible design opens gently against your vaginal walls and canโ€™t be felt at all.

UltuCup is made from 100% premium medical grade silicone at an ISO certified facility. Health and well-being is always on our mind.

  • Lifespan of the cup varies.
  • Your cup can last for years; however our recommended guideline is to replace your UltuCup once a year.
  • Inspect your cup regularly and replace if you see signs of deterioration such as sticky or powdery film, discoloration, odor, or you start to experience irritation
  • If you drop your cup in the toilet replace it
  • UltuCupโ€™s short solid stem is designed to be comfortable and easily cleaned.
  • You can trim the stem โ€“ only do so after trying the product, and only if you are sure you wonโ€™t need it.
  • Donโ€™t trim the stem shorter than ยผ inch (0.64 cm) and never trim the stem while wearing the cup.
  • Note that cutting the stem completely will make removal more difficult.

UltuCup is made in North America of medical grade silicone.

The UltuCup is made from a simple ingredient โ€“ 100% premium medical grade grade silicone. The UltuCup is free from dyes, dioxins, BPA, phthalates, pesticides, chlorine and latex.