How to Use an Internal Condom
The Internal condom (previously known as Female condom) is not difficult to use but it can take some practice to get used to it. Try to practice putting one in and removing it before using it for the first time with a partner. The Internal condom can be put in place up to 8 hours before sex takes place.
Before using the condom:
- Check the expiry date (within the right hand fold of the packet).
- Open the package carefully by tearing downwards from the notch on the top right of the package. Do not use teeth, scissors, a knife or any other sharp instruments to open.
- Rub it between your fingers in order to spread the lubrication around evenly.
The outer ring at the open end of the condom stays on the outside of the vagina.
The inner ring, at the closed end of the condom, is used for insertion and to hold the condom in place during sex.
You'll see that you can grasp the flexible inner ring and squeeze it with the thumb and middle finger so it becomes long and narrow or makes a figure 8.
The inner ring will be inserted into the vaginal opening, a bit like inserting a tampon.
Choose a position that is comfortable for insertion. Squat, sit, raise one leg or lie down with legs apart.
Squeeze the inner ring with one hand and use your other hand to separate the lips of the vagina (labia). Start to push the condom into your vagina.
Next, place your middle finger and/or index finger inside the condom and gently push the inner ring up as far as it will go. Make sure that the outer ring stays outside your vagina at all times. Be careful that your fingernails or jewellery do not damage the condom. Ensure that the condom does not twist.
The outer ring should remain on the outside of the vagina. As it covers part of your vulva it gives some additional protection.
The condom lines the inside of the vagina.
During sex you can gently guide your partner's penis into the opening of the condom. Hold the condom in place using one or both hands to make sure the penis enters into the condom.
Make sure that the condom is not pushed inside the vagina by the penis. Also, make sure that the penis does not enter on the side between the condom and the vaginal wall.
To remove the condom, squeeze and twist the outer ring to prevent the semen from leaking out and then gently pull the condom out of the vagina. Wrap the condom in the package or in a tissue and throw it in the rubbish bin. DO NOT flush it down the toilet.