Are Condoms Actually Effective?

When used correctly every time you have sex, male condoms are 98% effective. This means 2 out of 100 people will become pregnant in 1 year when male condoms are used as contraception.

How often do condoms fail?

The failure rate of condoms in couples which use them consistently and correctly is estimated to be about 3% during the first year of use. However, the true failure rate during that time period is estimated to be about 14%. This marked difference of failure rates reflects usage error.

Why do condoms fail?

The condom was torn during removal from its packet. The condom was too small or too large. The wrong lubricant was used. The user didn't know how to properly use condoms.