Using a female (internal) condom takes practice. The first time is typically the most awkward; by the third or fourth use, most people find insertion smooth and the device comfortable. The FC2 is the only FDA-approved internal condom in the U.S. and is the device described here. This guide walks through the full process: when to insert, how to position yourself, the actual insertion steps, what to do during sex, how to remove, and what to do if something goes wrong. The mechanics are different from external condoms, but the principle is the same: create a barrier that contains fluids and prevents direct contact.

What You Need

• One FC2 (FC2 Female Condom).
• Optional: additional water-based or silicone-based lubricant.
• A few minutes to insert without rush.
• A comfortable position.

When to Insert

Up to eight hours before sex. Many users insert the FC2 well before sex begins, which allows for spontaneity without a pause to put on a condom. The device stays in place once correctly positioned.

Step 1: Open the Wrapper Carefully

Tear at the marked notch using your fingers. Do not use teeth or scissors. The nitrile material is durable but can be punctured by sharp objects.

Step 2: Add Lubricant If Desired

The FC2 is pre-lubricated, but additional lubricant inside the pouch (and on the outer ring) often improves comfort and reduces noise during use. Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are both compatible with nitrile. Add a small amount inside the closed end of the pouch and a small amount on the inner ring.

Step 3: Find a Comfortable Position

Common positions for inserting:

• Sitting on the toilet with knees apart.
• Squatting.
• Standing with one leg raised on a chair or toilet seat.
• Lying on your back with knees apart.

Pick whichever lets you reach comfortably. Most users find that sitting or standing with one leg raised is easier than lying down for the first few attempts.

Step 4: Squeeze the Inner Ring

Hold the closed end of the pouch with the inner ring inside. Squeeze the sides of the inner ring together between your thumb and middle finger. The ring should fold into a narrow, elongated shape that fits between your fingers.

Step 5: Insert the Inner Ring

With the inner ring squeezed, insert it into the vagina like you would insert a tampon. Push it up as far as your fingers can comfortably reach. Many users find it helpful to push the ring up toward the small of their back rather than straight up.

The inner ring should rest behind the pubic bone, against the back wall of the vagina near the cervix. The pouch lines the vagina.

Step 6: Check Positioning

Once the inner ring is in:

• Use your index finger to feel along the pouch and confirm the inner ring is pushed back as far as it goes.
• The outer ring should sit outside the vagina, covering the vulva.
• The pouch should not be twisted. Smooth it out if necessary.
• The condom should not be uncomfortable. If you feel pressure or pain, adjust positioning.

Step 7: During Sex

Guide the partner's penis into the pouch with your hand the first few times. This makes sure the penis enters the condom rather than slipping alongside it. After insertion, the device stays in place during sex.

Watch for two things:

• Outer ring moving inside: if the outer ring is being pushed into the vagina during sex, pause, withdraw, and reposition.
• Penis slipping outside the pouch: if you feel the penis on the wrong side of the device, pause and reposition.

Step 8: Removal

After sex (no rush; the FC2 can stay in place comfortably for a while):

For Anal Use (Off-Label)

The FC2 is not FDA-approved for anal sex but is commonly used for that purpose. Modifications for anal use:

Common Issues and Fixes

The pouch makes noise during sex

Usually a lubrication issue. Add more water-based or silicone-based lube inside the pouch.

The outer ring keeps getting pushed in

The inner ring may not be positioned far enough back, or you may need to physically hold the outer ring during sex. Try reinserting and pushing the inner ring farther back.

The penis is slipping outside the pouch

Common in the first few uses. Use your hand to guide insertion until you have a feel for the device. Smoothing out twists in the pouch helps.

The condom comes out partially during sex

Pause, remove, reposition (or use a new condom). Sex with a partially withdrawn condom is unprotected.

Difficulty inserting

Practice helps. Some users find it easier to insert standing with one leg raised, or while in the shower (water helps relaxation). Lubricant on the inner ring before insertion also helps.

What Not to Do

• Do not use an internal condom and an external condom simultaneously. They can stick together and cause both to fail.
• Do not reuse internal condoms. They are single-use.
• Do not use oil-based lubricants if the package indicates the device is incompatible with them (the FC2 is generally compatible with all lube types, but check the package).
• Do not flush after use.

After Use Considerations

Same as external condoms:

• If the condom failed (broke, slipped, partially withdrew), assess pregnancy and STI risk.
• Emergency contraception is available over the counter and most effective within 72 hours.
• PEP for HIV exposure should be started within 72 hours.
• Routine STI testing follows the same windows as other exposures.

Practice Makes a Real Difference

More than with external condoms, internal condoms benefit from practice. The first one or two uses are often awkward. By the third or fourth, insertion is smooth and the device is comfortable. Several users have noted that practicing inserting alone (without a partner present) reduces the pressure of the learning curve.

Frequently Asked Questions