General Questions & Anatomy

• How do female condoms work?

  Female condoms, also known as internal condoms, are contraceptive devices designed to line the vagina to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. In the U.S., FC2 is the only female condom approved by the FDA. It’s as easy as slip in, sexy time, remove and dispose. There is an inner ring that sits behind the pubic bone, much like a menstrual disc or vaginal ring, and an outer ring that sits outside the vagina. FC2 holds sperm after ejaculation. Please visit our How To Use page for more detailed instructions.

• Can female condoms and male condoms be used together?

  No, and please don’t do this! The friction caused by the two condoms can lead to tearing of one or both of the condoms. Also, using one condom (external or internal) provides equal protection to both partners.

• Are female condoms safe to use after birth/while breastfeeding?

  Female condoms are a great contraceptive choice while breastfeeding or post-partum because they are hormone-free and you can use them when you need them.

• How are female condoms different from diaphragms, cervical caps and dental dams?

  Female condoms prevent both unintended pregnancy and STIs. Diaphragms and cervical caps only help prevent pregnancy, but neither is as effective at preventing pregnancy as the FC2 Female Condom^®. Dental dams are pieces of material used to cover the genitals during oral sex to help prevent the transmission of STIs and do not prevent pregnancy.

• What is barrier contraception?

  Barrier contraception is a method that prevents pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering the vagina and uterus. Because it is a physical barrier, it also blocks STIs. Female/internal and male/external condoms are the only barrier methods that also prevent the transmission of STIs. Female/internal condoms are the only dual-protection barrier contraceptives controlled by people with vaginas.

Using FC2

• How will I know if FC2 is inserted correctly?

  If the inner ring is pushed past the pubic bone, you’re good to go! You can also check to make sure it’s in place by inserting your index or middle finger a couple inches into your vagina and past your pubic bone to feel the inner ring. You should be able to feel that the inner ring is past the pubic bone, on the front wall of your vagina. The outer ring should be sitting outside the vagina.

• What if the outer ring gets pushed inside the vagina?

  STOP! Remove FC2 and insert a new internal condom according to the directions. Please check out our How To Use page for detailed instructions.

• What if the penis doesn’t enter the opening of the female condom correctly?

  It is very important that the penis enters into the center of FC2 every time it is inserted, and not between the vaginal wall and the outer side of the condom or pushing the outer ring inside the vagina. If the penis enters incorrectly, STOP, ask your partner to withdraw the penis, and start over. Until you and your partner become comfortable using FC2, use your hand to guide the penis into the vagina. You can add additional lubrication if desired.

• Will FC2 fit me?

  Yes! FC2 looks a little different than male/external condoms because it is made to line the vagina (a muscular and flexible organ) rather than wrapping tightly around a penis. This is why it appears a little wider, but it is actually about the same length as an average male condom. It is made for bodies of all shapes and sizes.

• Will FC2 get lost inside my vagina?

  No! If FC2 gets pushed all the way into the vagina, relax, insert your finger into the vaginal opening, locate the ring, and pull it out. Throw out the condom that was pushed inside the vagina, open a new FC2, and you’re back in business.

• When can I insert FC2?

  Most women insert FC2 between 2 and 20 minutes prior to sex, but FC2 can be inserted up to two hours before sexual intercourse, giving you the green light for interruption-free intimacy! The choice is yours!

• Can I reuse FC2?

  Short answer: NO! Reuse of any condom is not recommended – male or female. A new condom should be used every time you have intercourse.

• Can FC2 be used in different sexual positions?

  Curiosity definitely pleased the cat! FC2 can be used in any sexual position.

• Can you pee with FC2 in?

  No need to worry! FC2 fits into the vagina, whereas urine comes out of the bladder, into the urinary tract and out the urethra, so you can urinate without having to remove FC2. Just move the outer ring to the side before you pee.

• What type of lubricant can be used with FC2?

  FC2 is latex-free, so oil- or water-based lubricants can be added on the inside and outside. However, we should mention that FC2 already comes pre-lubricated with a silky, non- spermicidal, silicone-based lubricant.

• Can I use spermicides with FC2?

  At this time, no studies have been conducted to demonstrate if a spermicide is compatible with FC2 or if using a spermicide increases FC2 effectiveness.

• Will FC2 be noisy during sex?

  It shouldn’t be! But if you do experience noise during sex and it bothers you, you can add extra lubricant.

• Do I have to hold the outer ring the whole time during sex?

  Not at all! You do not have to hold the outside of the condom in place throughout intercourse. This is only recommended while inserting your partner’s penis. Side-to-side movement of the outer ring is normal, and sometimes the condom may slip up and down in the vagina, “riding” on the penis. Both the vagina and the penis are still covered, so let go and be free!

• Can FC2 be used at the same time as a menstrual disc?

  Because the inner ring of FC2 sits tucked behind the pubic bone, in the same area as a menstrual disc, it should not be worn at the same time. However, FC2 can be used during menstruation, so an option could be to remove the menstrual disc before using the condom and then placing the disc back in following intercourse.

• Can FC2 be used during menstruation?

  Yes! Being on your period does not prohibit you from using FC2. Just make sure to not use FC2 at the same time as a menstrual disc, tampon or period cup (you can put them in after you remove the condom).

FC2 Product Info & Benefits

• What is the FC2 Female Condom^® (internal condom)?

  Ready to take control of your own protection? FC2 is the only FDA-approved birth control option that protects you against unintended pregnancy and STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. And, did we mention it’s hormone-free?

• How many condoms come in a box?

  Each box contains 12 individually wrapped condoms.

• Is FC2 latex-free?

  Yes, FC2 is latex-free! The sheath and outer ring are made of a hypoallergenic material called nitrile. Nitrile is stronger than latex yet soft. It warms to the body after putting it in for a natural feel. The flexible inner ring is made of a latex-free material called polyurethane. And because FC2 is latex-free, you can use water-, mineral (oil)- or silicone-based lubricants, too!

• Why should I try FC2?

  If you’re looking to take control of your sexual health, FC2 is worth a try! FC2 is a non-hormonal, latex-free female condom that offers dual protection against STIs and unplanned pregnancy, along with other benefits. We recommend trying FC2 on your own first before sex. It may take you a few times to feel like a pro (like contact lenses, inner rings, and menstrual discs/cups). Please check out our Benefits page for more information.

• What is FC2 made of?

  The sheath and outer ring of FC2 are made of nitrile polymer (non-latex) that’s thin and strong. It warms to the body temperature after insertion. The flexible inner ring is made of polyurethane (non-latex). FC2 also contains a silicone lubricant with no additives.

• Who can use FC2?

  Any person with a vagina who has reached sexual maturity can use FC2. It’s a great hormone-free birth control option to protect you and your partner against unintended pregnancy and STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis. It is the only barrier method that people with a vagina control.

• Is FC2 bigger than a male condom?

  FC2 is actually about the same length as a male condom. However, it is wider than a male condom because it is made to line the vagina instead of wrapping tightly around a penis. Once inserted, it adheres to the walls of your vagina and allows for the penis to move freely within FC2.

• What is in the lubrication pre-packaged with FC2?

  Our lubricant is 100% silicone (dimethicone fluid). There are no additives.

• Can FC2 provide pleasure during intercourse?

  Some users report that the condom heightens their sensation of pleasure^{1, 2}. The latex-free nitrile material adheres to the vaginal walls and warms to the body after insertion for a natural feel. FC2 may also provide clitoral stimulation during use, as the outer ring could rub against the clitoris³. Some have also reported the inner ring provides additional stimulation⁴.

  Everyone’s body is different, so individual experiences may vary. Although many users in third-party studies and testimonials reported increased pleasure and sensation^{1, 2, 3} while using FC2, this is not a guarantee.

• How does the inner ring feel during sex?

  Some report the inner ring actually enhances sensation^3,4  for them during intercourse. Others either don’t notice the inner ring or are not bothered by it. If the inner ring is causing discomfort, try repositioning or reinserting FC2.

• My partner has trouble keeping an erection. Could FC2 work for us?

  Since an erection is not required to use internal condoms, FC2 could be a solution, especially if the loss of erection is being caused by use of an external condom.

• If I experience vaginal dryness, can I use FC2?

  Absolutely! FC2 comes pre-lubricated with silicone lubricant, and because it is latex-free, you can add more oil-, water- or silicone-based lubricant of your choice.

Insurance & Cost

• How much does FC2 cost?

  With a prescription, you can get FC2 + refills you may receive for as little as $0 through health insurance (insurance plans may vary) because the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates that different categories of birth control be covered for $0 out-of-pocket. Something to note is that this does not cover any office or telehealth visit fees to acquire a prescription.

• Is FC2 covered by insurance?

  FC2 is a female contraceptive that can be prescribed by a healthcare professional with no out-of-pocket expense with most insurance plans, per the ACA. However, please check in with your individual insurance plan for any questions on coverage, or what is required for coverage, as coverage may vary by plan and state.

• What if my insurance is not covering some, or all, of FC2?

  If you are uninsured or underinsured, there are options. Email us at info@fc2.us.com for more information.

• I have Medicaid/Medicare. What are my options?

  Unfortunately, due to current limitations, we can’t offer online prescription services to women with Medicaid or Medicare as their primary insurance at this time. Veru understands the importance of affordable reproductive health choices for all women, regardless of their insurance coverage. We’re actively working towards finding a solution for our telehealth offering. This does not prohibit anyone with Medicaid or Medicare from utilizing another telemedicine service or going to their healthcare provider for an FC2 prescription and then taking the prescription to a pharmacy for fulfillment.

  Users with Medicaid or Medicare that already have an FC2 prescription either from their healthcare provider or another telemedicine service, are welcome to inquire with our pharmacy partners, Professional Arts Specialty Pharmacy and CarePoint, about getting their FC2 prescription filled and sent to them.

  You can also email us with any product specific questions at info@fc2.us.com. For any insurance coverage information, please reach out to your insurance provider.

• How does your pharmacy partner know my insurance information?

  Our pharmacy partner will use the information sent by your doctor to obtain your insurance information. If they are unable to acquire prescription insurance information from the information provided or if there are coverage limitations with your insurance plan, they will reach out to you by calling or through text message. Please be sure to check your SMS messages.

Safety & Efficacy

• Does FC2 cause any hormone-related side effects?

  FC2 is hormone-free, so there are no side effects from using FC2.

• Does FC2 provide protection against STIs and pregnancy?

  Yes! FC2 is the only FDA-approved birth control option that protects you against unintended pregnancy and STIs, including HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomoniasis.

• How effective is FC2?

  FC2 has a 95% efficacy rate with perfect use. What does that mean? Perfect use means using the condom correctly every time, per the instructions. Visit our How To Use page for step-by-step instructions or read the product leaflet prior to use. Cheers to safe sexploration!

• What if I have a special health situation and feel I may not be able to use FC2?

  Talk to your healthcare provider if you feel you have a condition that would prohibit you from using FC2.

• Can I use FC2 with other contraceptives?

  Get that protection on lock! FC2 can be used with the pill, injections, IUD, the patch, birth control apps, post-sterilization and post-vasectomy to protect against STIs.

  However, FC2 should not be used with a diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge or vaginal ring because the inner ring fits into the same place behind the pubic bone and by the cervix. Additionally, internal condoms and external condoms should not be worn at the same time, otherwise the increased friction can cause tearing in one or both of the condoms.

• Will FC2 rip or tear while I am using it?

  Unlikely! Studies show that FC2 rips or tears less than 1% of the time when used correctly. If you think the condom has been ripped or torn, remove it right away, throw it away and insert a new FC2.

• If I had a hysterectomy or don’t have a cervix, can I still use FC2?

  Yes, having no cervix should have no impact on the product or its performance.

• I have feedback/a complaint/think I experienced an adverse event using FC2. What now?

  Please also reach out to info@fc2.us.com to provide any additional feedback or a more detailed explanation of your particular situation.

  Thank you, in advance, for your time in sharing more information with us as it helps Veru perform the necessary investigation(s) in an effort to maintain its high standards of safety for all current and future FC2 users.

Getting FC2

• How can I get FC2?

  The Affordable Care Act (ACA) covers FC2 as a form of female contraceptive. You can get FC2 + applicable refills with a prescription for as low as $0 with most insurance plans (any office or telehealth consult fee to get a prescription is a separate thing). The prescription can come from your healthcare provider and be filled at a local or mail-order pharmacy. You can also get an FC2 prescription through telemedicine. Please check out our How to Get page for more information and to get FC2 through our FC2 Rx platform option for a $10-20 virtual consult fee.

  FC2 is not available to purchase on e-commerce websites or in sex shops. We cannot vouch for the quality, expiration date or lack of tampering of FC2 sold through unauthorized sellers.

• How long will it take to get FC2 through the FC2 Rx portal?

  After you fill out the questionnaire through our Rx portal, the doctor will review and approve in 1-2 days (if further information is needed, they will reach out, so keep an eye on your SMS and email messages!). When a prescription is issued, it is then sent to the pharmacy. It is at the pharmacy level that insurance coverage is checked, and the product is shipped. It should take about three business days to complete as long as no further information is needed.

• How do I get in touch with your pharmacy and telemedicine partner?

  Our preferred pharmacy partners are Professional Arts Specialty Pharmacy and CarePoint. Please contact the pharmacy your prescription was sent to with any questions about getting your FC2 sent to you and for refills.

  You can reach Professional Arts Specialty Pharmacy by calling 888-237-4737 or text 337-242-8156 during business hours of 8:00 am-5:30 pm CST. You can reach CarePoint by calling (855) 237-9112.

  If you had your prescription transferred to a local pharmacy, please reach out to them directly.

  Our telemedicine partner is Telepath. You can reach out to Telepath with questions around your prescription or technical troubleshooting through the account created at service signup, by emailing hello@telepath.health, or by calling 650-479-4773.

• I’m experiencing a technical issue using the FC2 Rx platform. What do I do?

  Please reach out to Telepath with questions around your prescription or technical troubleshooting through the account created at the FC2 Rx Platform signup, by emailing hello@telepath.health, or by calling 650-479-4773.

• Why do I need to fill out a questionnaire to get an FC2 prescription?

  Just like a traditional doctor’s office, you’ll need to complete a medical intake form so that your telemedicine clinician can determine if a prescription is appropriate for you. Please note that a prescription being issued does not guarantee insurance coverage, and insurance coverage is confirmed at the pharmacy level. Please reach out to your insurance for any questions around your plan’s coverage.

• What happens to the information that I fill out in the questionnaire?

  We are committed to protecting your privacy. As such, any personal information you supply as part of the prescription request process, as well as any information subsequently shared with your telemedicine clinician, is stored and used in compliance with all relevant HIPAA regulations and is only used for clinical purposes. Neither Veru nor any of its partners will use your personal information for advertising or marketing.

Expiration, Storage & Disposal

• Where is the expiration date on the package?

  Dates are stamped in the seam of the FC2 sachet and on the exterior of the 12-pack box. FC2 condoms have a five-year shelf life from the date of manufacture. Both the manufacturing and expiration dates are on the sachet and 12-pack box. Do not use FC2 if the expiration date has passed. FC2 is not available to purchase on e-commerce websites or in sex shops. We cannot vouch for the quality, expiration date or lack of tampering of FC2 sold through unauthorized sellers.

• How long can FC2 be kept?

  FC2 is approved for a five-year shelf life from the date of manufacture.

• Are there any special storage requirements for FC2?

  Due to the properties of nitrile, FC2 is not affected by differences in temperature and/or humidity, so no special storage conditions are required. However, you shouldn’t store FC2 in direct sunlight.

• How do I dispose of FC2?

  FC2 should be disposed of in the trash bin, not down the toilet. While FC2 doesn’t have to be removed immediately after ejaculation, you should remove it prior to standing to avoid the contents spilling out.