A thin latex rubber or plastic covering which is placed inside a vagina or anus
When is it needed?
During each sexual act including vaginal or anal sex Effectiveness Consistent and correct use 95%Common use >79%
How it works
Works by forming a barrier that keeps sperm out of the vagina or anus
Advantages
• Condoms are the only form of contraception which offers protection from STIs
• Easy to use
• Easy to carry
• Used only when needed
Disadvantages
• Requires practice to insert correctly
• The penis can slip into the vagina between the condom and the vaginal wallA condom is the only way to prevent both unintended pregnancies and STIs, so it is important that you use them every time you have sex and know how to use them correctly.
Condoms are most effective at preventing pregnancy when used alongside another effective method of contraception.
Steps for using female (internal) condoms:
• Always make sure both you and your partner want to have sex and you’ve both consented first
• Check the expiration date on the package, and then open it carefully
• The internal condom comes already lubricated, but you can add more lube if you want• If you’re putting the condom in your anus, remove the inner ring.
If you’re putting the condom in your vagina, leave the ring in
• Relax and get into a comfortable position.
Standing with one foot on a chair, lying down, or squatting are common options
• If it’s going in your vagina, squeeze together the sides of the inner ring at the closed end of the condom and slide it in like a tampon.
Push the inner ring into your vagina as far as it can go, up to your cervix
• If it’s going in your anus, just push the condom in with your finger
• Make sure the condom isn't twisted.
Pull out your finger and let the outer ring hang about an inch outside the vagina or anus.
You’re good to go!
• Hold the condom open as the penis or sex toy is going into the condom to make sure it doesn’t slip to the side between the condom and your vagina or anus
• Once you’ve finished sex, if there’s semen (cum) in the condom, twist the outer ring (the part that’s hanging out) to keep the semen inside the pouch
• Gently pull it out of your vagina or anus, being careful not to spill the semen if there is any
• Throw it away in the bin (never flush any kind of condom, because it can clog your toilet)
• Internal condoms are not reusable —use a new one every time you have sex