FDA ClearedBarrier Method

External Condom

A barrier method worn over the penis that also lowers the risk of STIs, available over the counter.

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Last verified Updated Sources

External Condom (Barrier Method)

Method facts

External Condom
Effectiveness
87% typical use98% with perfect use
How long it lasts
Single use
Reversibility
Reversible
STI protection
Yes
How you get it
Over-the-Counter · No prescription
Cost
$0–$2 / per unitInsurance coverage: Varies
Status
FDA Cleared

How well it works

87 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy in a year. Typical use effectiveness rate.

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

How was this measured?

First-year failure rates are 13% with typical use and 2% with perfect use, so external condoms are 87% and 98% effective.

Research source: Guttmacher Institute Contraceptive Effectiveness / Contraceptive Technology 21st ed.

The details

What the evidence says

How well it works, what to watch for, who should avoid it, and the studies behind it.

How it works in the body

A sheath worn over the penis that keeps sperm from entering a partner's body. Latex and plastic condoms also block contact with semen and vaginal fluids that can carry STIs.

Side effects

  • Allergic reaction to latex in people with a latex allergy

Who shouldn't use this

Talk to a clinician first if any of these apply

  • Known allergy to latex (use polyisoprene or polyurethane instead)An allergy to natural rubber latex; use polyurethane or polyisoprene alternatives

Clinical guidelines

Cost and insurance

Often free or low cost at health centers, family planning clinics and health departments. Planned Parenthood puts the retail price at about $1 per condom on average and up to about $2; buying packs of 12 or more lowers the price per condom.

Insurance coverageVaries

What to know about External Condom

How it works

External condoms are sheaths worn over the penis during sex. They keep sperm from entering a partner’s body, and latex and plastic condoms also lower the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

How well it works

With perfect use, external condoms are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. Typical use is about 87%, mostly because condoms are not used correctly with every act of sex; few pregnancies come from breaks or slips. Most condoms are latex. Plastic condoms made of polyurethane, nitrile, or polyisoprene are options for people with latex allergies. Lambskin condoms help prevent pregnancy but may not protect against STIs, including HIV.

Where to get it

You can buy condoms over the counter at drugstores, supermarkets, convenience stores, or online, with no prescription and no age limit. Planned Parenthood health centers, family planning clinics, and local health departments often offer them free or at low cost. You can also search our provider directory for clinics near you.

2 products in this category

Specific branded items that use this method. Compare manufacturer details, active ingredients, and regulatory status.

Frequently asked questions

Sources (9)
  1. Research source: Guttmacher Institute Contraceptive Effectiveness / Contraceptive Technology 21st ed.
  2. Clinical guideline: CDC guideline
  3. Clinical guideline: WHO condom fact sheet
  4. Clinical guideline: CDC — Birth control methods (contraception overview)
  5. Clinical guideline: CDC — How to use a condom
  6. Research source: FDA product classification — condom (product code HIS, 21 CFR 884.5300, 510(k))
  7. Clinical guideline: FDA — Labeling for natural rubber latex condoms (class II special controls guidance)
  8. Research source: Planned Parenthood — Condoms (types and STI protection)
  9. Research source: Planned Parenthood — Where can I buy condoms and how much will they cost?

How we verify

Providers

463 providers offering external condom

Clinics and telehealth services in our directory that offer this method.

See all external condom providers

Planned Parenthood - Park Hill Health Center

Denver, CO 80207

Family Planning Clinic

In-Person Medicaid
Website (303) 321-2458

Planned Parenthood - Redwood City Health Center

Redwood City, CA 94061

Family Planning Clinic

Hybrid Medicaid
Website (650) 503-7810

Planned Parenthood - White Plains Center

White Plains, NY 10607

Family Planning Clinic

Hybrid Medicaid
Website (914) 761-6566

Planned Parenthood - Buffalo Health Center

Buffalo, NY 14214

Family Planning Clinic

Hybrid Medicaid
Website (866) 600-6886