External Condom
vs
Female Sterilization

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
External Condom

External Condom

A non-hormonal barrier method that also lowers the risk of STIs, available over the counter.
Female Sterilization

Female Sterilization

A permanent surgical procedure that blocks or removes the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.
Efficacy87% typical use

Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

99.5% typical use

Most effective: over 99 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

Cost$0.5–$3 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$0–$6,000

Insurance: Usually

DurationSingle usePermanent
ReversibilityReversiblePermanent
STI ProtectionYesNo
How it works

A physical sheath worn over the penis that blocks semen from entering the vagina and reduces skin-to-skin contact that transmits STIs.

Surgical disruption (clipping, banding, cauterization, or complete removal) of the fallopian tubes prevents eggs from reaching the uterus and sperm from reaching the egg.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCRequired Prescription required
Available Products3 products2 products
Side effects
  • Rare local irritation from latex or lubricants
  • Surgical risks (bleeding, infection, organ damage)
  • Anesthesia side effects
  • Ectopic pregnancy (small but serious risk if failure occurs)
Who shouldn't use this
  • Known allergy to latex (use polyisoprene or polyurethane instead)
  • Medical instability for general anesthesia or laparoscopy
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires