Breastfeeding Birth Control
vs
External Condom

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method	Breastfeeding Birth Control A natural postpartum method (lactational amenorrhea method, LAM) that relies on exclusive breastfeeding to suppress ovulation, effective for up to 6 months.	External Condom A non-hormonal barrier method that also lowers the risk of STIs, available over the counter.
Efficacy	98% typical use Moderately effective: over 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.	87% typical use Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.
Cost	$0–$300 Insurance: Varies	$0.5–$3 /per unit Insurance: Varies
Duration	Up to 6 months postpartum	Single use
Reversibility	Reversible	Reversible
STI Protection	No	Yes
How it works	Exclusive breastfeeding suppresses the hormones that trigger ovulation. High prolactin from frequent nursing keeps estrogen and progesterone low, preventing the return of menstrual cycles.	A physical sheath worn over the penis that blocks semen from entering the vagina and reduces skin-to-skin contact that transmits STIs.
Prescription	OTC No prescription / OTC	OTC No prescription / OTC
Available Products	No branded products yet	3 products
Side effects	None reported	Rare local irritation from latex or lubricants
Who shouldn't use this	Baby over 6 months old Periods have returned Not exclusively or nearly exclusively breastfeeding Use of supplemental formula or solid foods	Known allergy to latex (use polyisoprene or polyurethane instead)