Female condoms - now more commonly called internal condoms - are worn inside the vagina (or anus) rather than on a penis. They are the only contraceptive barrier method designed to be worn by the receptive partner.
Three internal condoms are available at Condoms.uk: Pasante Internal Condoms, EXS Internal Non-Latex Condoms, and Ormelle Female Condoms. All are CE-marked and latex-free.
What Is a Female Condom?
A female condom is a soft pouch worn inside the vagina (or anus). It lines the wall and collects semen during sex, preventing pregnancy and reducing STI transmission.
The term "female condom" is still widely used in UK retail and NHS contexts. "Internal condom" is increasingly preferred because:
- Internal condoms can be used by anyone with a vagina, regardless of gender identity
- They can be used anally by people of any gender
- The term describes how the condom is worn - inside the body, not on a penis
Both terms refer to the same type of product.
Internal Condoms Available at Condoms.uk
Pasante Internal Condoms
Pasante Internal Condoms are made from polyurethane - a thin, strong synthetic material that is fully latex-free. Pasante is a UK-based manufacturer and one of the main suppliers to the NHS, and their internal condom meets the same CE-marked standards as their external condom range.
Material: Polyurethane (non-latex)
Latex-free: Yes
Sizes available: 3 Pack, 30 Pack
Polyurethane is thinner than nitrile and transfers body heat well, which many people find improves sensation. It is also compatible with oil-based lubricants, unlike latex.
EXS Internal Non-Latex Condoms
EXS Internal Non-Latex Condoms are available in two styles: Stretch and Lace. Both are non-latex. The Stretch variant is the standard internal condom; the Lace variant features a textured finish for added stimulation.
Material: Non-latex
Latex-free: Yes
Available formats: Stretch (1, 5, or 10 pack), Lace (1, 5 pack)
EXS is a UK-based brand, and the Lace variant is one of the few internal condoms designed with sensation in mind - making it worth considering if you want something beyond the standard format.
Ormelle Female Condoms
Ormelle Female Condoms are available in single-condom packs through to 5-condom packs - the most flexible pack sizing of the three options, useful if you want to try before committing to a larger quantity.
Latex-free: Yes
Available pack sizes: 1, 3, or 5 condoms
How Does an Internal Condom Work?
Internal condoms have two flexible rings:
- Inner ring (closed end): A firm ring at the closed end of the pouch. Used to insert the condom and hold it in place at the top of the vagina (or deeper in the anal canal for anal use).
- Outer ring (open end): A larger, looser ring that sits outside the vaginal or anal opening during sex.
During sex, the condom lines the vaginal or anal wall. Semen is collected inside the pouch and does not come into contact with the body.
How to Use an Internal Condom
For vaginal use:
- Check the expiry date and CE mark on the packaging.
- Find a comfortable position - standing with one foot raised, squatting, or lying down.
- Hold the inner ring between thumb and middle finger and squeeze it so it narrows.
- Insert the closed end into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go - similar to inserting a tampon.
- Push the inner ring up as far as possible inside - it should sit at or near the cervix.
- The outer ring should sit 2-3cm outside the vaginal opening. This is normal.
- Before sex, make sure the penis enters inside the condom, not alongside it.
- After sex, twist the outer ring to seal the pouch, then gently pull and remove. Dispose in a bin - not down the toilet.
For anal use:
The process is similar. The inner ring can be removed before insertion if preferred. Insert the closed end into the anus. The outer ring sits outside at the anal opening.
Internal vs External Condoms: Key Differences
| Feature | Internal Condom | External Condom |
|---|---|---|
| Worn by | Receptive partner | Penetrative partner |
| Material | Polyurethane or nitrile (non-latex) | Latex (most); polyisoprene, polyurethane |
| Can insert in advance | Yes - up to 8 hours before sex | No |
| Latex-free | Yes | Not always |
| Use with external condom | No - do not combine | No - do not combine |
| NHS-supplied | Yes | Yes |
| Price per condom | Higher | Lower |
Why Use an Internal Condom?
Latex allergy: All three internal condoms stocked at Condoms.uk are latex-free. For people with latex allergies who are the receptive partner, the internal condom is a barrier option they control themselves.
Partner control: Internal condoms can be inserted up to 8 hours before sex. The receptive partner does not need to negotiate condom use in the moment.
No erection required: An internal condom can be inserted before any erection, reducing interruptions.
Anal use: Internal condoms are used in anal sex settings. Sexual health clinics distribute them for this purpose. The inner ring is often removed for anal use for comfort.
Lubricant Compatibility
All three internal condoms at Condoms.uk are non-latex (polyurethane or nitrile). This means:
- Water-based lubricants: Safe - recommended
- Silicone lubricants: Safe with polyurethane and nitrile
- Oil-based lubricants: Safe with these materials (unlike latex), but not recommended for vaginal use for other health reasons
Do not use an internal condom and an external condom at the same time. Combining both creates friction between them and increases the risk of both tearing.
For more on lube choices: Water-based vs silicone lube: which should you use?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you feel an internal condom during sex?
The outer ring is visible and can be felt at the opening. Most people find it minimal once in place. The pouch is soft and flexible and generally not noticeable internally when inserted correctly.
Can an internal condom get stuck inside?
The outer ring stays outside the body. If it is pushed inward during sex, remove it after by reaching in and pulling the ring. The condom cannot travel further into the body.
Can I use an internal condom and an external condom at the same time?
No. Use one or the other - combining them creates friction and increases tearing risk.
Can internal condoms be used for anal sex?
Yes. All three products can be used for anal sex. The inner ring is usually removed for comfort.
Are internal condoms reusable?
No. All internal condoms are single-use.
Are all internal condoms at Condoms.uk latex-free?
Yes. Pasante, EXS, and Ormelle are all non-latex. They are safe for people with latex allergies.
Shop Internal Condoms
Browse all internal condoms at Condoms.uk - Pasante, EXS, and Ormelle, all non-latex and CE-marked. Dispatched in plain, unmarked packaging. Free Royal Mail 48 Tracked delivery or Tracked Standard Delivery on orders over £25.
For non-latex external condoms: SKYN polyisoprene condoms and Pasante Unique polyurethane condoms.
