Contraception and family planning
Internal condom
A flexible sheath placed inside the vagina before sex.
Explained in clear language
What it is
It acts as a barrier to semen and reduces genital contact. It helps prevent pregnancy and many STIs when used correctly.
How it is performed
- 1
Individual assessment and indication
- 2
Explanation, alternatives and consent
- 3
Procedure with appropriate safeguards
- 4
Results, aftercare and follow-up
Askabide visual archive
The procedure, also explained through images
The photographs come from Askabide’s clinical and “more information” sections. They have been selected by clinical area to support the explanation; not every image is a literal representation of each manoeuvre and none replaces an individual medical explanation.
Assessment and indication
The indication is decided after listening to the reason for attending, reviewing history and explaining the clinical question that needs to be answered.
How it is carried out
The technique, sample collection, device or intervention is adapted to the individual situation and explained before it starts.
Results and follow-up
The result is not interpreted in isolation: symptoms, examination, age, history and complementary tests are considered together.
Clinical interpretation
What is important to understand before deciding
What it can contribute
This procedure addresses a specific clinical question. Its usefulness depends on the indication, timing and technique being appropriate for your situation.
What it cannot determine on its own
No test or procedure should be interpreted outside its clinical context. A normal result does not dismiss persistent symptoms, and an abnormal finding does not automatically mean serious disease.
What happens afterwards
Depending on the result, the next step may be discharge, observation, repeat testing, further assessment or treatment. The plan is explained before the episode is considered complete.
Expanded information
Questions we answer during the consultation
The technical information on this page helps you prepare for the consultation. The final decision is made after assessing your circumstances and confirming that the likely benefit outweighs the risk.
How is the method chosen?
We consider effectiveness, contraindications, bleeding pattern, convenience, reversibility, medication, migraine, smoking, clotting risk and personal preferences.
Does it protect against sexually transmitted infections?
Most contraceptive methods do not protect against STIs. Condoms reduce that risk when used correctly, although they do not remove it completely.
What if I want to change or stop it?
We explain how to stop, when the cycle may recover and what alternative to use to avoid a gap in protection. Permanent methods require specific reflection and consent.
What it is used for and when
- An alternative to the external condom.
- A wish for the receiving partner to control the barrier method.
- Combined pregnancy and STI prevention when no other method is used.
How it is performed
The inner ring is inserted deep in the vagina and the outer ring remains outside covering part of the vulva. The penis is guided into the sheath and it is removed by twisting the outer ring.
Preparation
No clinical preparation is required, but clear instructions on correct use, effectiveness, STI protection and what to do after a failure are important.
Tell the team beforehand if pregnancy is possible, you take anticoagulants, have allergies, active infection or a relevant medical condition. Specific instructions take priority over the general information on this page.
After the procedure
You can usually continue normal activities. Specific advice may be given after an examination or sample.
Risks, limitations and alternatives
It should not be used at the same time as an external condom because friction increases the risk of breakage. Correct placement may take practice.
Clinical judgement and evidence
Choice should reflect preferences, effectiveness, possible adverse effects, medical history and eligibility criteria. Apart from condoms, contraceptive methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Related procedures
Askabide Klinika
Not sure which procedure you need?
You do not need to choose a test on your own. Tell us what concerns you and the team will guide you after assessing your situation.