References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Internal condoms (sometimes called female condoms or FC2) can be used for anal sex as well as vaginal sex. They provide a barrier against HIV and other STIs, and some people prefer them because the receptive partner has more control over protection. Internal condoms are made of nitrile, so they’re suitable for people with latex allergies.
Here’s how to use them safely for anal sex.
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How Internal Condoms Work
An internal condom is a soft pouch with a ring at each end. For anal sex, the inner ring is removed and the condom is inserted into the rectum before penetration. The outer ring sits outside the body.
How to Use an Internal Condom for Anal Sex
- Check the expiry date and open carefully
- Remove the inner ring (it’s designed for vaginal use and isn’t needed for anal insertion)
- Add lubricant inside the condom and around the outside
- Insert the condom into the anus using your fingers, leaving the outer ring outside
- Guide the penis into the condom during penetration
- After sex, twist the outer ring to keep fluids inside and gently pull out
Advantages
| Advantage | Detail |
|---|---|
| Partner control | The receptive partner can insert it in advance |
| Latex-free | Made of nitrile — no latex allergy risk |
| Can use any lubricant | Oil-based and water-based are both safe with nitrile |
| Covers more area | The outer ring provides some external protection |
| Can be inserted in advance | No interruption at the moment of sex |
Tips for Success
- Use plenty of lubricant — inside, outside and on the penis
- Make sure the penis goes inside the condom, not alongside it
- Hold the outer ring in place during sex if it moves
- Practice a few times — it gets easier
- Never use an internal and external condom together — friction causes both to fail
Where to Get Them
Internal condoms are available from some sexual health clinics, online retailers and pharmacies. They are more expensive than external condoms but are sometimes available free from NHS services.
Read more: Condoms and HIV | Anal sex and HIV risk | What is HIV?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are internal condoms as effective as external condoms?
When used correctly, they provide comparable protection against HIV and STIs. Consistent correct use is the key factor for both types.
Can I use oil-based lube with internal condoms?
Yes. Internal condoms are made of nitrile, which is compatible with all lubricant types including oil-based. This is different from latex external condoms.
Do I need to remove the inner ring for anal use?
Yes. The inner ring is designed for vaginal insertion. For anal use, remove it before inserting the condom.
Related reading
- What Is a Female (Internal) Condom?
- Common STI Symptoms in Women
- Can Condoms Protect Against HIV?
- Can You Test for STIs While on Your Period?
- Why Is an HIV Prevention Vaccine So Difficult to Develop?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
