Using condoms along with the pill, patch, or ring reduces the risk of unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI). Even among those at highest risk for STIs, only a small subset of teens and women report using two methods of protection at last intercourse.

A survey of 5,178 reproductive aged teens and women enrolled from the 2006-2008 National Survey of Family Growth revealed that only 7.3% reported using two contraceptive methods at last intercourse. This reflects a slight increase from a 2001 study in which 7% of women report dual use. Contraceptive ring users were most likely to use condoms, while users of the IUD and implant were least likely to use condoms.

Two small studies explored the factors that influence condom use. A survey of 522 teens found that those who had a strong desire to prevent pregnancy and had better communication with parents were most likely to use dual methods. Another study of high-risk teens found that impulsivity, self-esteem, and partner communication skills influenced the level of condom use.

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Helpful Resources

Your Birth Control Choices 

Sources

Eisenberg DL, Allsworth JE, Zhao Q, Peipert JF. Correlates of dual-mothod contraceptive use: An analysis of the national survey of family growth. Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology 2011, Art. No.: 717163. DOI: 10.1155/2012/717163. 

Pazol K, Kramer MR, Hogue CJ. Condoms for dual protection: patterns of use with highly effective contraceptive methods. Mar 2010, 125(2); 208-217. 

Anderson JE, Santelli J, Gilbert BC. Adolescent Dual Use of Condoms and Hormonal Contraception. Sep 2003, 30(9); 719-722. 

Pharma-free

The Reproductive Health Access Project does not accept funding from pharmaceutical companies. We do not promote specific brands of medication or contraception. The information in the Contraceptive Pearls is unbiased, based on science alone.