External Condom
vs
Vasectomy

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.
Vasectomy

Vasectomy

A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
Efficacy87% typical use

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

99.85% typical use

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

Cost$0.5–$3 /per unit

Insurance: Varies

$0–$3,500

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.

A clinician cuts, seals, or blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. The body absorbs the sperm, and the semen remains normal in appearance and volume.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCOTC Procedure (in-person)
Available Products3 productsNo branded products yet
Side effects
  • Rare local irritation from latex or lubricants
  • Mild pain or swelling for a few days
  • Bruising or bleeding at the site
  • Sperm granuloma (small lump, usually harmless)
  • Chronic post-vasectomy pain syndrome (rare, 1-2%)
Who shouldn't use this
  • Known allergy to latex (use polyisoprene or polyurethane instead)
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires
  • Active local or systemic infection
  • Bleeding disorder