Internal condoms vs. external condoms: what you need to know

You’ve probably heard a lot about condoms, but have you heard that there are different types? Each have their own unique perks. Whether you’re just curious or looking to make an informed choice, we’re here to break it down for you.

What are internal and external condoms?

So let’s start with the basics:

An internal condom is a thin pouch made of a soft plastic called nitrile. It goes inside the vagina, but anyone can use it inside the anus too.

An external condom is a thin piece of rubber (latex) that goes on an erect penis. They come in different sizes and should fit without being uncomfortable. Condoms are one of the best ways to protect your sexual health. They can be used for vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Using a condom, whether internal or external, every time you have sex helps protect you and your partner from HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Even if you’re using another form of birth control (like the pill), it’s smart to also use condoms to prevent STIs.

What’s the difference?

Size

Internal condoms are bigger than external condoms, but don’t worry– internal condoms are comfy when you put them in right. They come in one size, similar in length to external condoms, but they’re much wider.

External condoms are smaller but there are different sizes to choose from – so you can find the one which fits best.

How they work

Once you put the internal condom in, it lines the walls of the vagina or anus, allowing for easy movement of a penis, sex toy, or fingers while creating a barrier that stops sperm and STIs.

External condoms roll onto the penis once it’s erect (hard) creating a barrier that stops sperm and STIs.

When you can use them

One of the best things about internal condoms is that you can insert them ahead of time, even before foreplay, so you don’t have to pause the fun when things get heated.

An external condom needs to go on once the penis is erect (hard) before it touches your partner’s mouth or genital area (like the vulva, vagina, anus, buttocks, or upper thighs).

How effective are external (male) condoms vs internal (female) condoms?

The good news is that both types of condoms are very effective. External condoms are up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy if used correctly every time you have sex. Internal condoms are about 95% effective with perfect use.

For more on how to use condoms correctly read our external condoms page and internal condoms page.

If not used perfectly, external condoms are about 82% effective, and internal condoms are around 79% effective. This means around 1 in 5 women using condoms for a year might get pregnant.

Overall using either type of condom is one of the best ways to protect your sexual health and they are very effective at preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Pros and cons of male and female condoms

Both internal and external condoms are excellent ways to prevent unplanned pregnancy and STIs. Plus, they can make sex feel even better. But each type has its own special perks.

External Condoms

Convenient: You can find them almost anywhere and they’re straightforward to use

Boost pleasure: Different flavours and textures can add to the fun!

Affordable: They don’t cost much and are often free at sexual health clinics.

Internal Condoms

Hypoallergenic: Great for people who are sensitive to latex.

Boost pleasure: The rings can stimulate the tip of the penis, the vulva and clitoris – this can feel great for both of you!  

No interruptions: Can go hours before sex so you don’t have to pause the fun.

The cons: There are a few things to keep in mind. For both internal and external condoms to work well, you have to use them correctly every single time you have sex. They can also take some getting used to, especially female condoms, which might require a bit of practice.

Safe and fun

Safer sex can be super fun. Why not make them part of the fun of foreplay, experiment with different textures, flavours and sizes and most importantly relax and enjoy the enjoy  the moment. Read more about how to have great sex when using condoms in our blog.

Feel in control with an internal condom

Internal condoms are more than just a way to stay safe—they’re also a great way for any woman (or anyone with a vulva) to take control of her own sexual health. You may even find it easier to talk about safer sex and sexual health when using internal condoms. Using them can boost your self-confidence and give you more autonomy over your own body and sexuality.

A study by the World Health Organization showed that internal condoms can make women feel more empowered, especially when paired with education and information.

Another study from Kenya and Brazil, found that both men and women had positive reactions to internal condoms. Group sessions introducing internal condoms helped people openly discuss sexuality, breaking cultural taboos. Women in the study said they felt more comfortable talking about and enjoying sex, and they found using internal condoms more pleasurable. It also made them feel more in control of their bodies and sexuality.

Where can I find condoms?

You can find external condoms in lots of stores, and many health centers give them out for free. Internal condoms might be a bit harder to find but can also be found for free at some health centers. Even if you have to spend a bit of your money on them, condoms are worth it for protection against pregnancy, STDs, STIs, HIV and AIDS.

Still deciding - why not try both?

Still wondering which condom is best: internal or external? The answer is simple – it depends on what works best for you and your partner.

Not everyone is open to using condoms, so don’t assume your partner will have one ready. The best way to know is to talk about it. This may sound like it could be awkward, but you can make talking about safer sex super sexy – just use your imagination!

Before deciding on one type, why not try both? Putting both types of condoms to the test will help you work out what’s best for you. Just remember, never use both types at the same time – though this might sound like it would give you extra protection friction means they may get damaged and break.