Condom
Overview (External Condoms)
External condoms, which are usually just called condoms, are one type of barrier method of birth control, which means that they prevent pregnancy by physically blocking sperm from getting to eggs. Condoms fit snugly over the penis so that when ejaculation happens, the semen (the whitish fluid that contains sperm) stays inside the condom and out of the vagina, which keeps sperm away from any eggs. Each condom can only be used one time.
Condoms are one of the most popular forms of birth control out there, and there are lots of types made of different materials, in different sizes, with lube and without, and in different colors, flavors, and textures. There are also internal condoms, which are placed inside the vagina instead of being placed over the penis.
Condoms and internal condoms are the only kinds of birth control that help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as preventing pregnancy. But not all condoms are effective against STIs. Natural membrane condoms, sometimes called lambskin or natural skin condoms, are the one type of condom that does not prevent STIs. Natural membrane condoms are not as commonly used, but they are one of the condom options that are safe for people with latex allergies.
Quick Facts
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and don’t require a prescription, but they do require work.
Effectiveness
Condoms are pretty effective the way most people use them.
Perfect use: 98% effective
Typical use: 87% effective
What are perfect use and typical use?
Hormones
Condoms are hormone-free.
Side effects
If you’re sensitive, they could cause a little irritation. They may reduce sensation slightly when you’re having sex.
Cost
Available for free at many clinics. Otherwise, around $1 each, but the price varies.
STI protection
Condoms can offer STI protection as well as pregnancy prevention.
Ongoing effort
You have to make sure to use condoms correctly every time in order for them to be effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs.
Where can you get condoms?
You can buy condoms at all kinds of places—like drug stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, and gas stations. You can get them for free at some clinics and even some bars and clubs.
You can also buy condoms online from vendors like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, plus specialty condom stores like Condomania and Condom Jungle.
Overview (Internal Condoms)
The internal condom (sold under the brand name FC2) is a pouch that feels and works a lot like the external condom, which is usually just referred to as a “condom.” Internal condoms are a type of barrier method of birth control, which means that they prevent pregnancy by physically blocking sperm from getting to eggs.
Internal condoms are bigger than external condoms, since they’re designed to sit inside the vagina, with part that stays on the outside. When ejaculation happens, the semen (the whitish fluid that comes out of the penis and contains the sperm) stays inside the internal condom and out of direct contact with the vagina. This keeps sperm away from any eggs. Internal condoms can each only be used one time, just like external condoms. Internal and external condoms are the only birth control methods that can also protect against STIs.
The biggest difference between the internal and external condom is that the internal condom sits inside the vagina while the external condom fits snugly over the penis. Also, internal condoms are not as easy to get as external condoms. A provider visit is required to get a prescription for internal condoms.
Internal condoms are also used by some people for anal sex, both to help prevent STI transmission and to make things as mess-free as possible.
Quick Facts
Very effective if you use them correctly, but not super effective the way most people use them. Hormone free, protect against STIs, and great for those with latex allergies.
Effectiveness
Internal condoms are pretty effective the way most people use them.
Perfect use: 95% effective
Typical use: 79% effective
What are perfect use and typical use?
Hormones
Internal condoms are hormone-free.
Side effects
They could cause a little irritation. They may reduce sensation slightly when you’re having sex.
Cost
As low as $0 (with insurance) or as high as $3 per internal condom.
STI protection
Internal condoms can offer STI protection as well as pregnancy prevention.
Ongoing effort
You have to make sure to use internal condoms correctly every time in order for them to be effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs.