External Condom
vs
Sponge

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.
Sponge

Sponge

A soft foam disc placed deep in the vagina before sex. It covers the cervix and contains spermicide.
Efficacy87% typical use

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

Least effective see details

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

Cost$0.5–$3 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$15–$20 /per package

Insurance: No

DurationSingle useSingle use (can be left in place up to 24 hours and for multiple acts of sex)
ReversibilityReversibleReversible
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.

A foam disc impregnated with spermicide is placed over the cervix before sex. The spermicide kills or disables sperm and the physical barrier blocks sperm from entering the uterus.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCOTC No prescription / OTC
Available Products3 products1 product
Side effects
  • Rare local irritation from latex or lubricants
  • Vaginal irritation or dryness
  • Increased risk of urinary tract infection
  • Rare allergic reaction
Who shouldn't use this
  • Known allergy to latex (use polyisoprene or polyurethane instead)
  • Allergy to nonoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride, or other spermicide ingredients
  • History of toxic shock syndrome
  • Active vaginal infection
  • Inability to insert or remove reliably
  • High risk of HIV exposure (frequent nonoxynol-9 use may increase vaginal irritation; CDC cautions)