Contraception: Is Condom Use Enough to Prevent Pregnancy?

Q: Contraception: Is Condom Use Enough to Prevent Pregnancy?

Hello： No contraceptive method is 100% effective. <br>Typically, the success rate of condoms is around 92-95%; the success rate of intrauterine devices (IUDs) is about 97%; and if taken consistently, the success rate of birth control pills exceeds 99.7%. <br>On the other hand, th

Contraception

Hello, doctor: I recently started having sexual intercourse and have been very concerned about contraception.
I would like to ask, under general circumstances, if a male uses a condom throughout the entire duration of intercourse (putting it on before any genital contact and keeping it on until the end), using a well-known brand, and also withdrawing before ejaculation, what is the likelihood of pregnancy? Given this situation, should I consider starting a contraceptive pill like Yaz? Thank you for your response!

hj, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/03/24

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: No contraceptive method is 100% effective.
Typically, the success rate of condoms is around 92-95%; the success rate of intrauterine devices (IUDs) is about 97%; and if taken consistently, the success rate of birth control pills exceeds 99.7%.
On the other hand, the success rate of withdrawal (pull-out method) is quite low.
Therefore, the choice of contraceptive method also depends on individual tolerance to that method and any potential side effects.
The contraceptive pill "Yueji" contains 30 micrograms of female hormones, and some individuals may experience nausea as a side effect.
However, it also contains anti-androgenic progesterone, which can treat symptoms such as acne and hirsutism, and may lead to weight loss.
It is worth trying.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2015/03/24

More Info

When it comes to contraception, understanding the effectiveness of condoms is crucial for anyone engaging in sexual activity. Condoms are one of the most popular forms of contraception and, when used correctly, they can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
In your case, you mentioned that you are using condoms consistently and correctly, which is key to their effectiveness. When a male partner wears a condom from the beginning to the end of intercourse, and it is a reputable brand, the chances of pregnancy are quite low. The typical failure rate of condoms is about 18% per year with typical use, meaning that about 18 out of 100 women will become pregnant within a year of using condoms as their only method of contraception. However, with perfect use, the failure rate drops to about 2%. Perfect use means that the condom is used consistently and correctly every time during sexual intercourse.

You also mentioned practicing withdrawal (coitus interruptus) by removing the penis before ejaculation. This method can further reduce the risk of pregnancy, but it is not foolproof. Pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, and if not careful, this can lead to unintended pregnancy. Therefore, while combining condom use with withdrawal can lower the risk of pregnancy, it is not a guarantee.

If you are still concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you might consider additional contraceptive methods. Birth control pills, like the one you mentioned (e.g., "Yaz" or "Yasmin"), can be an effective option when taken correctly. They have a failure rate of less than 1% with perfect use, making them one of the most reliable forms of contraception available. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any hormonal contraceptive to discuss your medical history, potential side effects, and how it fits into your lifestyle.

In summary, using condoms correctly and consistently significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy. Adding withdrawal can further lower that risk, but it is not a foolproof method. If you are looking for more reliable contraception, consider discussing hormonal options with your healthcare provider. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each method based on your individual health needs and lifestyle. Remember, effective communication with your partner about contraception is also essential for mutual comfort and safety in your sexual relationship.

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