What it is
The internal condom is a soft, loose-fitting pouch that lines the vagina and collects semen. It has an inner ring that anchors at the cervix and an outer ring that stays outside the vaginal opening. You can put it in ahead of time: CDC says up to 8 hours before sex, while the FC2 maker says up to 2 hours. It can also be used for anal sex. The FDA’s 2018 reclassification renamed the device from “single-use female condom” to “single-use internal condom” and describes it as lining the vaginal or anal wall.
How it works
The internal condom is made of nitrile and contains no natural rubber latex, so people with latex allergies can use it. FDA’s 2009 review found it compatible with water- and silicone-based lubricants; the maker says oil-based lubricants also work. It lowers the risk of sexually transmitted infections, though CDC notes the data are limited. Do not use an internal condom and an external condom at the same time, since this can cause tearing.
Where to get it
The FC2 is the only FDA-approved internal condom available in the United States. FDA classifies internal condoms as over-the-counter devices, but the maker sells the FC2 to individuals through pharmacies with a prescription, which lets insurance cover it, often at no cost. You can get a prescription from your own clinician or through the maker’s telehealth partner, then fill it at a local or online pharmacy. Without insurance, many Planned Parenthood health centers, family planning clinics, and local health departments provide it, sometimes for free. You can also search our provider directory for clinics near you.
