The male condom is the most widely used barrier method in Italy, but there are also less used methods that include the female condom, diaphragm, cervical cap and sponge. The female condom is a polyurethane sheath in the form of a bag that is roughly 17 cm long, with two flexible rings at both ends (both open), which is inserted into the vagina and prevents the sperm from reaching the uterus. It is thicker and less effective than the male condom. It can be used by women who are allergic to the latex used in male condoms (even though they are also made with other materials, specifically for alleviating this problem).

Using barrier methods requires some practice. The gynecologist will have to teach you how to insert and remove it. For this reason, they are not suitable for all women, particularly those who are not very experienced with their bodies.