How Effective Are Condoms at Preventing Pregnancy and STIs? Key Facts and Tips

• When used perfectly every time, male condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy.

• With typical use (sometimes making mistakes), they are about 85% effective. This means about 15 out of 100 people using only condoms for a year might get pregnant.

• Female condoms are about 95% effective with perfect use and 79% with typical use.

Common Mistakes That Make Condoms Less Effective

• Using expired condoms.

• Storing condoms in hot places (like wallets or cars).

• Not pinching the tip before rolling it on, which can cause breakage.

• Putting the condom on too late, after there’s already been contact.

• Reusing condoms (they are for one-time use only).

• Using oil-based products (like lotion or petroleum jelly) with latex condoms, which can cause them to break.

• Always check the expiration date.

• Store condoms in a cool, dry place.

• Pinch the tip and roll the condom all the way down.

• Use a new condom every time you have sex.

• Use water-based or silicone-based lubricants with latex condoms.

Condoms and STIs

• Condoms are very good at protecting against STIs that spread through fluids, like HIV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

• They are less effective against STIs that spread through skin-to-skin contact, like herpes or HPV, because these can affect areas not covered by the condom.

• For oral sex, dental dams can help protect against STIs.

• Protect against both pregnancy and many STIs.

• Do not have hormones, so no hormonal side effects.

• Easy to get and use.

• Lots of choices for different needs and allergies.

• Can be used whenever needed, even without planning ahead.

Limitations of Condoms

• Can break or slip off if not used correctly.

• Not 100% effective, so it’s important to use them properly every time.

• Some people are allergic to latex.

• Some people say condoms reduce feeling during sex.

To get the most protection from condoms, follow these basic steps:

1. Check the expiration date.

2. Open the package carefully (don’t use teeth or sharp objects).

3. Pinch the tip to remove air and leave space for semen.

4. Roll the condom down the entire length of the erect penis.

5. After sex, hold the base while pulling out to keep it from slipping off.

6. Throw the condom in the trash (not the toilet).

Final Thoughts

Condoms are a reliable and easy way to protect yourself and your partner from pregnancy and STIs. The most important thing is to use them every time and use them correctly. Talking openly with your partner and getting regular STI tests can help keep you both healthy and safe.