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Insight Horizon Media

Why are condoms the best form of contraception?

Author

Mia Smith

Published Mar 08, 2026

Why are condoms the best form of contraception?

Condoms are a good type of contraception to use because they prevent both unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you use a non-expired condom the right way, it’s 98 percent effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy.

What are disadvantages of condoms?

Disadvantages of using condoms are as given below: May disrupt spontaneity during sex. Some men cannot maintain an erection when using a condom. Some men and women can develop an allergy or sensitivity to latex (in this case, polyurethane condoms may be used)

Can I use condoms as my only form of birth control?

But in reality, Planned Parenthood says, condoms are about 85 percent effective when people use them as their only form of contraception. That’s because condoms might be used incorrectly.

Are condoms or birth control safer?

While birth control pills are effective at preventing an unplanned pregnancy, condoms are the only method that can protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you wish to protect yourself against pregnancy and STI’s, the best option is to use hormonal birth control and a condom when you have sex.

Why do condoms fail?

Some of the most frequent mistakes include putting a condom on partway through intercourse or taking it off before intercourse is over, failing to leave space at the tip of the condom for semen, and failing to look for damage before use.

When can you stop using condoms?

Some STIs like HIV and syphilis can take up to three months to show up in an STI screening, so keep using condoms for at least three months after either of you had sexual contact with another person, then go and get tested.

Can sperm go through condoms?

Sperm can’t pass through a condom. The only way that could happen is if the condom breaks or if it has a hole in it. Otherwise, sperm stays trapped inside the condom. That’s why condoms are so good at preventing pregnancy.

Do condoms feel good?

Some condoms are actually designed to make sex more pleasurable: textures like studs and ribbing, colors, flavors, and ultra-thin materials, and even special lubricants can all add to the fun. Using condoms as part of foreplay can be sexy and exciting.

How effective are condoms in preventing STDs?

Epidemiologic studies that compare rates of HIV infection between condom users and nonusers who have HIV-infected sex partners demonstrate that consistent condom use is highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV. Similarly, epidemiologic studies have shown that condom use reduces the risk of many other STDs.

Do condoms protect against all STIs?

These Are The STIs That Condoms Don’t Protect Against. It’s so important to get tested regularly. Chris Rogers / Getty Images. The basic function of a condom is to prevent the transmission of semen. By stopping that one thing, you can prevent both pregnancy and the spread of tons of STIs during intercourse.