Author: Dr. Brian Enggano

As an OB/GYN, I discuss birth control and STI (sexually transmitted infection) prevention on a regular basis, sometimes multiple times a day, and sometimes even multiple times with a single patient. With all the different types of birth control out there, we often forget about condoms as an option. 

While it is true that condoms are not as effective at preventing pregnancy as other birth control methods like IUDs, implants, pills, patches, and injections, there are still benefits to using condoms — especially their practicality and effectiveness in protecting against STIs.

What are condoms?

Condoms are a type of barrier contraception that physically blocks sperm, semen, and other genital lesions from making contact with one’s partner. They are made of various materials including latex, polyurethane, and natural animal skin, with latex being the most effective against STIs and therefore the most commonly used condom (over 80%). 

Condoms serve two main purposes:

1. They can prevent pregnancy, although not as reliably as other birth control options (condoms are 85% effective with typical use as compared with >95% with other forms), and;
2. More importantly, condoms can protect against STIs including HIV, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Trichomonas, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and human papilloma virus (HPV).

In fact, the U.S. has the highest rate of STIs of any nation in the industrialized world with our youngest adults (ages 15–24) being hit the hardest. These teens and young adults account for only 25% of the sexually active individuals in our country but amount to just under 50% of all STI cases in the U.S.

History of condoms

Condoms are the oldest form of protection, and their origin dates back many centuries. In ancient Egypt and Rome, people would actually use linen sheaths to protect themselves from venereal diseases. Nowadays, with advances in manufacturing and mass production, condom production has greatly evolved and continues to this day. 

Condom use and demand has also been a result of the changing times. Several major world events, such as World War I, the free spirit of the 1960s and 70s, and the social awareness of new viruses like HIV in the 1980s, and HPV more recently, have helped encourage sexual health awareness. 

Condom companies have made millions of dollars producing and selling condoms. For example, Trojan, who makes over 70% of all U.S. condoms, brings in revenues of approximately $270 million annually.

Here are some benefits unique to condoms.

1. Condoms prevent STIs

I can’t say this enough times as this is their greatest utility. There is overwhelming evidence that condoms drastically decrease the transmission rates of STIs. 

In fact, there is only one option that is more effective at preventing STIs and that is abstinence (not having sex).

2. They’re inexpensive

Condoms do not cost much, if anything. Most come in packs which usually cost less than $10. Some programs, doctor’s offices, community centers, schools and clinics supply them at no cost at all.

3. They are readily accessible

They do not require any doctor appointments or prescriptions and can be purchased online from many retailers, as well as over the counter at any grocery store, pharmacy, or gas station. You’ll also find them at retailers such as Target and WalMart.

4. They’re convenient

Condoms are small in size, easily concealed, portable, and ready for immediate use. They require no preparation prior to use. 

5. There is no delay in fertility after their use

Condoms are a good option for those couples who are not wanting to get pregnant right away but may want a family very soon. They are a highly reversible birth control option.

Use multiple forms of birth control for greater effectiveness

One downside to condoms is that they’re generally less effective than other forms of birth control. And,  they can break. Effectiveness may depend on your level of experience with condoms. Couples in long-term relationships, for example, have lower failure rates.

That’s why I encourage all of my patients who need contraception to combine one form of reliable birth control (implant, IUD, pills, etc.) with condoms concurrently to prevent STIs.

What to do if a condom breaks

If a condom does break, your next steps will depend on your unique situation. You should talk to a doctor about next steps — a HealthTap Urgent Care doctor is a great option.

• If you’re worried about STIs, you should get tested. HealthTap doctors can order tests or direct you to a nearby testing site.
• If your main concern is avoiding pregnancy, the best option is emergency contraception (also known as Plan B), a medication that is usually available at a pharmacy without a prescription. Emergency contraception  must be taken within 5 days after intercourse and is more effective the sooner it is taken.

Conclusion

Again, am I saying that condoms are a better alternative to other forms of birth control? Absolutely not. But they do carry some added benefits, most importantly STI prevention.

Dr. Brian Enggano is an OB/GYN physician at MacArthur OB/GYN in Irving, TX, and a Founding HealthTap Medical Expert. He is very passionate about HPV awareness, female preventive medicine, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and high risk obstetrics. “Patient education and empowerment are my focus.”