Birth Control FAQs: Internal (Female) Condom

Imagine a birth control method that puts you in the driver’s seat, offers non-hormonal protection, and can even enhance sensation. That’s the power of the female condom (also known as an internal condom). Often overshadowed by male condoms, this effective barrier method offers a powerful combination of STI and pregnancy prevention, empowering you to truly enjoy the benefits of condom protection while staying in control of your sexual experience. Ready to put this birth control option to work for you? Discover more below, or click here to request it today (be sure to mention you want  FC2 Internal Condom® when asked if you have a preferred birth control).

What Is the Female Condom?

The female condom, known by its brand name FC2 Female Condom (or FC2 Internal Condom®), is a one-time-use sheath inserted into the vagina or anus to prevent pregnancy and/or the transmission of STIs (including HIV/AIDS). The female condom acts as a barrier to prevent the passage of sperm to an egg. When used vaginally or anally, the internal condom also acts to block sexually transmitted infections. In most cases, the female condom is covered by insurance when prescribed by a medical provider. FC2 Internal Condom® is one of many contraceptive options offered at Nurx. 

How It Works

FC2 Female Condom is inserted into the vagina in a method similar to inserting a tampon or menstrual cup. The sheath has two rings, one on either end. The larger ring at the open end remains outside the vagina to surround the outer genitalia. For vaginal sex, push the inner ring into your vagina as far as it can go.

For anal sex, you must remove the inner ring. To insert, relax and get into a comfortable position. Then push the condom in with your finger. 

When initiating vaginal or anal intercourse, the outer ring is held in place and the penis is guided into FC2 Internal Condom®. The female condom is removed by twisting the outer ring, then carefully sliding the sheath out. For pregnancy prevention, it is especially important to twist and remove gently if there is semen in the condom.

Since the female condom is larger than a male condom, it doesn’t fit snugly around the penis and may be more comfortable for both parties. Because the inner and outer rings may contact the head of the penis, as well as the clitoris, during intercourse, some users report increased stimulation and pleasure from contact with the rings. The internal condom can be inserted up to two hours in advance for vaginal sex and does not need to be removed immediately after intercourse. 

Availability

You can get FC2 Female Condom online through Nurx. It’s available both over-the-counter and by prescription. When prescribed, some insurance plans may cover all or part of the cost of the FC2 Female Condom. Internal condoms can also be found at sexual health clinics, online retailers, and select pharmacies.

Effectiveness

Because the female condom doesn’t rely on an erection to stay in place, it doesn’t have to be removed immediately following ejaculation. With perfect use, FC2 Female Condom is 95 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. With typical (less than absolutely perfect) use, the FC2 condom is about 79% effective. Spermicide may be added to increase effectiveness.

Side Effects

There are no known side effects to the female condom. For those allergic to latex, the female condom is a safe, hypoallergenic alternative to male condoms.

Important Information

Although there is little risk to using the female condom, it should not be used with a male condom as doing so does not increase effectiveness and could cause one or the other to break. FC2 Female Condom should never be used more than once. If used for anal sex, FC2 Internal Condom® should be inserted immediately before sex, as the muscles of the sphincter could draw the condom further into the body. If the female condom should tear or break during use, emergency contraception may be considered to prevent pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the female condom compare to the male condom?

Since the female condom can be inserted up to two hours in advance of vaginal intercourse, its use is less intrusive than interrupting sex to put on a male condom. For those whose partners don’t like to wear male condoms, FC2 Female Condom empowers their partners and provides the same level of protection.

Does the internal condom prevent HIV?

Since FC2 Internal Condom® can be used in the vagina or the anus, it is an effective barrier against HIV when used correctly and consistently. It also covers more area around the vagina or anus, offering added protection against STIs. Note that no barrier method is 100% effective.

Can I urinate while wearing FC2 Female Condom?

Yes! Since FC2 Female Condom does not interfere with the urinary tract, urination isn’t impaired while in use, though you may need to move the outer ring out of the way.

Is the female condom lubricated?

The FC2 condom comes pre-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant, but additional oil and water-based lubricants can be used. It does not contain spermicidal additives, preservatives, or parabens, and is gluten-free.

Do female condoms expire?

Yes. Packages contain stamped expiration dates. Do not use FC2 Female Condom if the expiration date has passed.

What if the outer ring gets pushed into the vagina?

Stop and remove FC2 Female Condom, then insert a new condom.

Does the female condom hurt?

When used correctly, inserting FC2 Female Condom is similar to inserting a tampon and should not be painful. If discomfort is experienced while inserting the condom, try repositioning or replacing the sheath and trying again.

How much do female condoms cost?

Female condoms are available over-the-counter and by prescription and may vary in cost. Some insurances may cover the prescription cost of the female condom (if prescribed by a medical provider). Internal condoms may be available for free at family planning centers. Without insurance coverage, the out-of-pocket cost for a box of 12 FC2 Female Condoms through Nurx is $225.*

Where can I find more information?

More information on the FC2 Female Condom can be found here: https://fc2.us.com/ or watch a video here: https://player.vimeo.com/video/203143673

Disclaimers 

The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon this content for medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to a medical professional.

Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of required consultation.

*Price not guaranteed. Insurance not accepted for medical consultation.. Not all insurance plans accepted. Coverage based on applicable insurance terms Additional costs apply, including consultation and periodic support fee.