Internal condom - meaning and definition
Alsofemale condomfemidomfemale condomsinternal condomsFC2
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
An internal condom is a soft pouch placed inside the vagina or anus before sex to act as a barrier against pregnancy and infections.
At a glance
- It is a soft pouch placed inside the vagina or anus before sex.
- It has a flexible ring at each end, one inside and one outside the body.
- It is usually made of polyurethane or nitrile, so it suits people with a latex allergy.
- It is about 95% effective with perfect use and around 79% with typical use.
- It should not be used together with an external condom, because friction can cause tears.
In detail
It has a flexible ring at each end: one helps hold it in place internally and the other stays outside the body. It is usually made of polyurethane or nitrile, so it is suitable for people with a latex allergy, and it can be inserted some time before sex.
Used perfectly it is about 95% effective at preventing pregnancy, and around 79% with typical use. Like external condoms it also reduces the risk of many sexually transmitted infections. An internal and an external condom should not be used together, because friction can cause either to tear.
In a sentence
- The clinic had internal condoms as well as the usual kind, which was handy for my latex allergy.
- An internal condom can be put in some time before sex, the leaflet said.
Not to be confused with
- Diaphragm
A diaphragm covers only the cervix and does not protect against infections.
Common questions
Is an internal condom the same as a female condom?
Yes. "Internal condom" is the more inclusive name for what is often sold as the female condom, describing where it goes rather than who uses it.
Can you use an internal condom and an external condom together?
No. Using both at once creates friction that can cause either to tear, so only one should be used at a time.
Related terms
Sources
- NHSInternal condoms
- Planned ParenthoodInternal Condoms