FC2 Internal Condom: Pros, Cons and Effectiveness
The FC2 Female/internal condom has been available in Canada for over fifteen years. It is a great option to aid in the prevention of STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and unplanned pregnancies. It is a non-hormonal, latex-free barrier worn inside the vagina during sex. Like every safer-sex option, it has benefits and limitations. Understanding the pros and cons of the FC2 Internal Condom can help you decide whether it may be a good fit for your needs.
As well, there is a LINK at the end of blog that you can sign up for get access to FC2 Materials and additional educational resources!
About FC2
FC2 is made from nitrile, a non-latex material, and comes pre-lubricated. The Female Health Company has compiled a list of 10 benefits of the FC2 Internal Condom. When used correctly and consistently, internal condoms can help reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and the transmission of STIs, including HIV. However, no barrier method provides complete protection.
FC2 Internal Condom Pros and Cons at a Glance
| Potential Benefits | Possible Limitations |
| Helps reduce the risk of pregnancy and STIs | Requires correct insertion |
| Made from non-latex nitrile | May take practice to use comfortably |
| Can be inserted before sex | Less effective when not used correctly |
| Compatible with oil- and water-based lubricants | May cost more than external condoms |
| Comes in one size | May be less widely available |
| Gives the person wearing it more control | Comfort and sensation vary by person |
| May provide additional stimulation for some users |
Benefits of the FC2 Internal Condom
Helps Reduce the Risk of Pregnancy and STIs
Internal condoms create a physical barrier that helps prevent the exchange of bodily fluids between sexual partners. Correct and consistent use can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy and many sexually transmitted infections.
However, protection can vary depending on how an infection is transmitted. Condoms generally provide stronger protection against infections spread through bodily fluids than infections spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas the condom does not cover.
For additional pregnancy prevention, an internal condom may be used alongside a compatible, non-barrier form of birth control, such as oral contraceptives or an intrauterine device. A healthcare professional can help you choose a combination that works for you.
Provides a Latex-Free Option
FC2 is made from nitrile and does not contain natural rubber latex. This makes it an option for people who have a latex allergy or sensitivity. People with allergies or previous reactions to condoms, lubricants or other sexual-health products should always review the product information before use.
Can Be Inserted Before Sex
An internal condom can be inserted before sexual activity begins. This gives the user time to become comfortable with the placement and ensure that the condom has been inserted correctly.
Being able to prepare in advance may also make safer-sex conversations feel less rushed. Instead of interrupting the moment to find and apply an external condom, the person wearing FC2 can take the time needed to insert it properly.
Offers More Control Over Protection
Because the internal condom is inserted by the person wearing it, it gives the receptive partner another way to take an active role in safer sex.
This can be particularly valuable when an external condom is not preferred, available or suitable. It also gives healthcare professionals and sexual-health educators another barrier option to discuss with the communities they serve.
Is Compatible With Different Lubricants
FC2 comes pre-lubricated with a silicone-based lubricant. Additional lubricant can be added to the inside or outside of the condom when desired.
Because FC2 is latex-free, it can be used with oil-based, water-based or silicone-based lubricants without damaging the nitrile material. This provides more flexibility than many natural rubber latex condoms, which should not be used with oil-based products.
Always check the instructions for the lubricant and any other products being used.
Comes in One Size
FC2 has a one-size design, so users do not need to compare several widths or lengths before selecting a product.
Comfort is still personal, and it may take time to become familiar with how the condom feels and fits. Practising insertion before sexual activity may help make the experience easier.
May Enhance Pleasure for Some Users
Some users report that the inner or outer ring provides additional stimulation. The condom also has a loose-fitting design rather than fitting tightly around the penis.
Experiences will vary. Some people may enjoy the sensation, while others may need time to become comfortable with the rings or material.
How Effective Is the FC2 Internal Condom?
Internal condoms can be up to 95% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use. With typical use, they are approximately 79% effective.
Perfect use means the condom is inserted and used correctly every time. Typical use accounts for common mistakes, such as incorrect insertion, inconsistent use or the penis entering beside the condom instead of inside it.
This means that correct use matters. Reading the instructions and practising insertion before using FC2 during sex can help reduce the chance of mistakes.
It is also important to remember that no condom or contraceptive method is 100% effective.
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In stock$75.00 -
In stock$28.00
Possible Disadvantages of the FC2 Internal Condom
It Can Take Practice
Internal condoms may feel unfamiliar at first. The inner ring must be inserted far enough inside the vagina, while the outer ring must remain outside the body. The sheath should not be twisted, and the user should make sure the penis enters inside the condom rather than between the condom and the vaginal wall. Trying the product in a relaxed setting before sexual activity may help build confidence.
Incorrect Positioning Can Reduce Protection
An internal condom may not provide the intended protection when:
- The penis enters beside the condom
- The outer ring is pushed inside the vagina
- The condom becomes twisted
- The condom slips out of place
- The condom tears or is damaged
Stop if the condom moves out of place or is being used incorrectly. Remove it and use a new one.
Typical-Use Effectiveness Is Lower
Although internal condoms can be up to 95% effective with perfect use, their typical-use effectiveness is approximately 79%. This difference does not mean the product is ineffective. It highlights the importance of correct insertion, consistent use and following the product instructions every time.
Cost May Be a Barrier
Internal condoms often cost more per unit than standard external condoms. They may also be harder to find in regular retail stores. However, sexual-health clinics, community organizations, educational institutions and outreach programs may provide internal condoms at a reduced cost or free of charge. Availability will vary by community.
The cost should be considered alongside the product’s benefits, including its latex-free material, advance insertion and increased user control.
Comfort and Sensation Vary
Some people find FC2 comfortable and enjoy the loose-fitting material. Others may initially notice the rings or movement of the condom.
If friction or noise is a concern, additional lubricant may help. Inserting the condom in advance may also allow the material to warm to body temperature.
Important FC2 Safety Tips
To help FC2 work as intended:
- Read the complete product instructions before use.
- Check the expiry date and package for damage.
- Open the package carefully without using scissors or sharp objects.
- Make sure the condom is not twisted.
- Insert the inner ring and keep the outer ring outside the vagina.
- Guide the penis into the condom to prevent it from entering beside the sheath.
- Stop if the condom slips, twists or moves out of position.
- Use a new condom if a problem occurs.
- After sex, twist the outer ring gently before removing the condom to help contain fluids.
- Place the used condom in the garbage. Do not flush it.
A new FC2 should be used for each sexual act. Condoms are single-use products and should never be reused.
Important: Never use an internal condom and an external condom at the same time. Friction between the two condoms can increase the risk of slipping or breaking.
Can FC2 Be Used With Other Birth Control?
FC2 can be used alongside several non-barrier contraceptive methods, including birth control pills, injections and intrauterine devices.
Combining FC2 with another compatible contraceptive method may provide additional pregnancy protection. However, methods such as the pill and IUD do not protect against STIs.
FC2 should not be used with an external condom. Some contraceptive devices placed inside the vagina may also interfere with the inner ring. Speak with a healthcare professional when you are unsure whether your current birth control is compatible with FC2.
Access Free FC2 Educational Resources
Pamco provides free FC2 educational and training materials for healthcare professionals, educators and community organizations. These materials can help your team:
- Introduce the FC2 Internal Condom
- Explain its benefits and limitations
- Demonstrate correct use
- Answer common questions
- Support more inclusive safer-sex education
Complete Pamco’s FC2 educational resources form to receive access to the available materials. You can also explore Pamco’s FC2 products, frequently asked questions and usage resources for additional information.
Pamco Distributing supplies FC2 products and educational materials. This article is intended for general educational purposes and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
FC2 FAQs
No. However, if you experience noise during sex and it bothers you, you can add extra lubricant.
No. Reuse of any condom is not recommended – external or internal. A new condom should be used every time you have intercourse.
- Yes: FC2 Female Condom can be used with the pill, injections, IUD contraceptives, post-sterilization and post-vasectomy to protect against STIs, including HIV.
- No: FC2 cannot be used with the diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge, or NuvaRing® as the inner ring of FC2 fits into the same place at the cervix.
No. If the FC2 gets pushed all the way into the vagina, just relax, insert your finger into the vaginal opening, locate the ring, and pull the FC2 out. Throw out the FC2 that was pushed inside the vagina, open a new FC2, and try again. The FC2 remains in the vagina during use.
It is important that the penis is guided into the center of FC2 and not between the vaginal wall and the outer side of FC2. If the penis does enter incorrectly, STOP and start over, with additional lubrication, if necessary.
STOP. Remove FC2. Insert a new female condom according to the directions.
FC2 Condom is inserted correctly when the inner ring is pushed past the pubic bone. The outer ring and part of the condom is flat around the opening of the vagina, covering the external genitalia. You can check that the condom is in place by inserting your index or middle finger into the vagina past the pubic bone. You can feel your pubic bone by curving your index or middle finger when it is a couple of inches inside your vagina. You should be able to feel that the inner ring is past the pubic bone on the front wall of the vagina.
FC2 Female Condom® is similar in length to a male condom. However, it is wider than a male condom and therefore not constricting on the penis, which many men find pleasurable. Once inserted, it lines the walls of the vagina and allows for movement of the penis inside the sheath.
FC2 condom can be inserted in advance of sexual intercourse and does not need to be taken out immediately after intercourse. While most women insert FC2 between 2 and 20 minutes in advance, the FC2 Female Condom can actually be inserted up to 2 hours in advance.
Yes, FC2 Female Condom is latex-free and made of nitrile. Nitrile is thinner, but stronger, than latex.
No, as the friction caused by the two condoms can lead to tearing of either one or both of the condoms. Also, using one condom (male or female) provides equal protection to both partners. Never use more than one condom at a time.
FC2 Condoms are available through Pamco’s website on the retail page.
- FC2 is a strong, soft, nitrile sheath or pouch 17 cm (6.5 inches-the same as the male condom) in length. Nitrile polymer (non-latex), is thin and strong, and warms to body temperature.
- FC2 is made of a nitrile sheath and outer ring, and a polyurethane inner ring.
- FC2 contains a silicone-based lubricant but additional lubrication can be used. FC2 can be used with oil- and water-based lubricants. FC2 does not contain spermicidal additives, preservatives, paraben and is gluten free.
- The FC2 Female Condom is a proven non-hormonal, latex-free contraception device that offers dual protection.
- FC2 is a Class III Medical Device.
- FC2 is indicated for prevention of both unintended pregnancy and STIs (including HIV).
- The FC2 Female Condom is non-allergenic and contains no latex.