Internal condoms: one of the best-kept secrets of contraception are one of the only forms that offer protection against both sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. Not only are they made from nitrile and silicone so are completely latex-free, they are also free from animal-derived ingredients.

While many people are already familiar with other methods of contraception, little is often known about the Internal condom. Therefore, we’ve addressed everything you’ll want to know about the internal condom. 

What are internal condoms?

An internal condom, formally known as a female condom, is a type of condom that fits inside your vagina rather than covering a penis. It’s made up of nitrile and silicone oil lubricant and just like a regular condom stops sperm from coming into contact with the vagina protecting you from both sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy - benefiting from being 95% effective with perfect use. 

Internal condoms are also non-hormonal, so are great for people that are unable to take hormonal methods of contraception. They are single-use only, so don’t be tempted to wash it out and re-use! 

Very simple to use, internal condoms can be placed inside the vagina for up to 20 minutes before you have sexual intercourse.

The background of Internal Condoms:

FC was the 1st generation female condom made from polyurathene. It was the world's first female condom accredited by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It was available from 1992-2009 and was known for being quite noisy when used - but has since been discontinued. 

FC2 is the 2nd Generation Female Condom made from soft, smooth, non-latex Nitrile. Available from 2009 - present in 150 countries worldwide - this condom doesn't make noise, like the original FC.

What are the benefits of using internal condoms?

• They contain no unnecessary side-effects that you can occasionally get with other contraceptives.

• Perfect for those who are allergic to latex.

• Triple protection - protecting against unintended pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections and HIV.

• Hypoallergenic, synthetic material (Nitrile)

• Can be worn after ejaculation (increasing the duration of intimacy)

• The internal condom is shaped for increased satisfaction. You can stimulate the clitoris with the inner ring before insertion, whilst the outer ring moves back and forward - increasing satisfaction for the receptive partner.

• Quickly warms up to body temperature

• Odourless

• Lubricated with silky, long-lasting silicone-based lubricant

• Internal condoms can be placed inside the vagina up to 20 minutes before you have sex, for interruption-free intimacy (this is of course optional).

• They can be used in addition to other methods of contraception, for example; the pill, depo, the implant or the coil.

• More comfortable as they are slightly wider than a traditional condom - allowing more breathing space (but still being fully protected).

• Easy to remove after use.

What size are internal condoms?

How to insert an internal condom?

Many people worry about whether they can use an internal condom correctly, but if you can insert a tampon, you’ll more than likely be fine using an internal condom. Or If you've ever used a neuva cup/menstrual cup before, it's a pretty similar exercise!

All condoms should come with a CE-Mark. This means they have passed the safety standards necessary. Before you use an Internal Condom (or any condom for that matter) this is what you should do:

• Check the expiry

• Check the CE

• Check it's not been opened

• Rub the package to ensure the lubricant is evenly spread over the entire condom 

How to insert one

1. Before using an internal condom, read the instructions sheet that can be found inside the packaging.

2. Before opening the internal condom, feel for it inside the packaging and push it to the side before tearing open.

3. Find a comfortable position; either lie down or squat - you can do the same position as if you were inserting a tampon and separate the lips of the vagina with one hand.

4. Squeeze the flexible inner-ring between your thumb and middle finger, making it long and narrow and gently slide the condom inside of you. 

5. Using your middle finger, insert the internal condom as far as you can while leaving the outer-ring on the outside, close to your vagina.

6. Don’t worry if the condom feels a little loose - that’s perfectly normal.

7. After sex, pinch the outer ring to keep the sperm inside the condom, twist 3 times and then pull the condom out. 

8. Wrap it in a paper towel or tissue and discard it in the bin 

9. Practice makes perfect. It’s best to practice 1-3 times before you have sex, so you can become familiar with them before using it as a form of contraception.

Make sure the inner ring is in the opening past your vaginal canal and the outer ring sits covering the vaginal opening. 

Please note: male condoms and internal condoms should never be used together as the friction can cause a tear in both contraceptives. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are internal condoms perfect for? 

• Anyone with a latex-allergy

• Anyone sensitive to hormonal methods of contraception

• Anyone wanting to be in control of their own barrier contraception

• Anyone comfortable touching their vagina

• Everyone

Where can I get internal condoms?

For a simple and discreet delivery, you can order directly from us or you can pop along to your local Contraception and Sexual Health Service.

What to do if an internal condom breaks?

This very rarely happens if the condom is used correctly, but if the internal condom does break during or after sexual activity, then you can use emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy. You can pick up emergency contraception at your local pharmacy, Contraception and Sexual Health clinic or your GP. It’s also a good idea to take an STI test too as you may have been exposed to an infection when the condom split.  

Can I use an internal condom if I am on my period?

Yes, absolutely! Our internal condoms are completely safe to use when you are on your period and will not impact the condoms effectiveness.

Can I use lubricant with internal condoms?

You can use any lubricant with our internal condoms. While they already come pre-lubricated - if you wanted to use additional lubricant, we recommend either our refreshing mint, succulent strawberry, exotic banana, cookies and cream or gentle light lubricant. 

Latex-free, internal condoms are already pre-lubricated and are safe to use with other types of condom-friendly lubricants. (Never use baby oil or other types of oil as they can damage the condom.) 

Don’t forget! 

• Always check the expiry date and make sure the internal condoms holds the CE-Mark.

• Always use the easy-tear slip on the side of the condom. Never use your teeth or scissors.

• Only use condom-friendly lube.

• Single-use only.