Used correctly every time, condoms are up to 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. With typical, real-world use that drops to about 82%. They’re also the only form of contraception that reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Here’s what those numbers mean and how to stay at the high end of them.
The short version
- Up to 98% effective against pregnancy when used correctly every time.
- About 82% effective with typical use, which means around 1 in 5 women relying on condoms for a year would get pregnant.
- Condoms are the only contraception that also lowers STI risk.
- The gap between 98% and 82% is almost entirely down to how they’re used and stored.
Perfect use versus typical use
“Perfect use” means a condom used correctly, every single time, with nothing going wrong. “Typical use” is the messier reality: condoms put on late, taken off early, the wrong size, damaged by oil-based lube, or skipped now and then. The 98% figure is perfect use; the 82% figure is typical use. The good news is that closing the gap is mostly within your control.
These figures come from the NHS, which is the source to trust over any retailer, including us.
How to keep condoms at 98%
- Check the use-by date. An expired condom may not be effective.
- Check the packet for a CE or UKCA mark, which shows it’s been tested to safety standards.
- Store them somewhere cool and dry, not a wallet or a hot car for months.
- Open the foil carefully, no teeth or scissors.
- Put it on before any genital contact, not partway through.
- Use a water-based or silicone lube with latex condoms. Oil-based lubes and creams weaken latex.
- Use a fresh condom for every act, and for each partner.
Condoms and STIs
No other everyday contraception does this. The pill, the coil, and the implant prevent pregnancy but offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections. A condom acts as a barrier, which is why it’s recommended alongside other methods if STI protection matters to you.
Are printed or custom condoms as effective?
Yes, as long as they’re properly certified. Printing a design on the foil wrapper doesn’t touch the condom inside. What matters is the same as for any condom: a CE or UKCA mark and an in-date pack. The custom condoms we print at Kissy Bang Bang are CE-marked and standard fit. The wrapper is the only thing that changes. If you want the detail on how that works, see our complete guide to custom condoms.