Internal Condoms 101: Unknown, Unbothered, Underrated
"Internal condoms: a gender-inclusive option for safer queer sex, solo or partnered." The other day, someone casually asked me at work,...
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Internal Condoms
The Barrier Boss
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An internal condom is a soft, flexible pouch that sits inside the vagina or anus to help prevent pregnancy and reduce STI risk. It’s hormone free, latex free, and great for all kinds of sex and all kinds of bodies.
The inner ring holds it in place, while the outer ring stays outside for extra protection and pleasure. You can insert it right before sex or a few hours ahead if you want to be ready when the mood hits.
They work for all kinds of sex and all kinds of bodies, whether you’re queer, trans, non binary or just into exploring safer ways to play.
Index
How it works
How it works
Barrier magic for bodies
The internal condom creates a soft pouch that catches semen before it reaches the uterus or comes into contact with your partner’s body. It acts as a physical barrier between fluids, helping to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of STIs. No hormones, no copper, just simple, clever protection that works for all kinds of sex and all kinds of bodies.
How effective is it?
Internal condoms are highly effective when used correctly. They are about 95% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use and around 79% effective with typical use. They also provide solid protection against many STIs when used consistently and correctly.
Spoiler: very (when used correctly)
How effective is it?
Who it's for
Who it’s for
Easy (hormone-free) protection
Internal condoms are perfect if you want:
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A hormone-free way to prevent pregnancy
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Protection that also helps reduce STI risk
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Control over safer sex, whether solo or with partners
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A flexible option that works for vaginal or anal sex
They’re not ideal if you have an allergy to the material or experience irritation. Talk to a health worker if you’re unsure.
Internal condoms are a great choice for queer, trans, and non-binary folks looking for safer, sex-positive options that fit their unique bodies and lifestyles.
For queer folks
For Queer Folks
Take charge your way
Internal condoms are a great hormone-free option that works for all bodies and genders no matter who you’re attracted to or how you have sex. They provide protection against pregnancy and many STIs without making assumptions about your identity or your sexual practices.
Many people in our community love that internal condoms are latex-free and can be used whether you’re on hormone therapy or not. They also give the receptive partner more control over safer sex, which can be really empowering. If insertion feels uncomfortable or brings up dysphoria, it’s okay to take your time and ask for support from a provider who understands gender diversity.
You can use internal condoms for vaginal or anal sex with partners of any gender. Remember, no method is perfect, so combining them with other safer sex tools like external condoms or dental dams can boost your protection.
If you’re unsure whether internal condoms are right for you, connect with a queer-friendly health worker or someone experienced with trans and gender-diverse care. It makes a big difference to have someone who gets you.
The good stuff
The good stuff
Why people love it
The not-so-great bits
The not-so-great bits
Real talk: what to expect
Getting one
Getting one
The appointment lowdown
You can insert an internal condom yourself. That means no clinician needed and no appointment required. It usually takes just a few minutes once you get the hang of it.
At first, it might feel a bit strange or bulky, but that usually settles quickly. Using plenty of water-based lubricant can make it more comfortable.
There’s no downtime afterward, so you can have sex whenever you’re ready. Just be gentle when inserting and removing it to avoid discomfort or tearing.
If you want tips or support, a sexual health worker or nurse can show you how to use it confidently.
Check out our guide on what to expect with internal condoms for more details.
For the bottoms
The power is in your hand and you're a total baddy
Internal condoms put the power firmly in the hands of the receptive partner. They give bottoms control over safer sex and let you decide when and how to protect yourself.
This kind of empowerment is about owning your body, your pleasure, and your safety no matter your gender or who you are with.
For the Bottoms
Further reading:
Some more articles written by us for our community
Further reading
For more info or to chat with a nurse:
🌐 www.secretsexproject.com/secret-sex-talk
🧏♀️ Deaf or hard of hearing? National Relay Service: 13 36 77
🌏 Need an interpreter? TIS National: 131 450
Last reviewed: November 2025
References:
Family Planning NSW. (2024). Female condom factsheet. https://www.fpnsw.org.au/factsheets/individuals/contraception/female-condom
Fenwick, S. E., Botfield, J. R., Kidman, P., McGeechan, K., & Bateson, D. (2021). Views and experiences of the female condom in Australia: An exploratory cross-sectional survey of cisgender women. PLOS ONE, 16(2). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0246664
Gollub, E. L. (2000). The female condom: tool for women’s empowerment. American Journal of Public Health, 90(9), 1377–1381. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.90.9.1377
Hindin, M. J., & Fikree, F. F. (2002). The female condom: a review of the evidence and its potential role in sexual health. International Family Planning Perspectives, 28(3), 117–121. https://doi.org/10.2307/3097823
Huang, J.-L., Xin, X., Ma, M.-J., Ning, Z., Xiao, S., & Chen, P. (2023). A qualitative study on the clinical safety and user experiences of female condoms for anal intercourse among men who have sex with men in Shanghai, China. Frontiers in Public Health, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1243891
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