Side-by-side comparison
Male condom vs internal condom
Both reduce the risk of STIs as well as pregnancy. External (male) condoms are cheaper and easier to find and are a little more effective with typical use; internal condoms can be put in ahead of time and are usually latex-free.
By the AltFTool health editorial teamLast reviewed Checked against WHO, CDC and NHS guidance
Key differences
| Feature | Male condom | Internal condom |
|---|---|---|
| Typical-use effectiveness | 87% | 79% |
| Perfect-use effectiveness | 98% | 95% |
| Hormones | None | None |
| How long it lasts | One use: a new condom each time you have sex | One use: a new condom each time you have sex |
| Protects against STIs | Yes | Yes |
| Needs a clinician to start | No | No |
| Daily or every-time action | Yes | Yes |
| You can stop it yourself | Yes | Yes |
| Fertility after stopping | Immediately | Immediately |
| While breastfeeding | Yes | Yes |
| Effect on periods | No effect on periods. | No effect on periods. |
Read each guide
Male condom
People who want protection from STIs as well as pregnancy, often alongside another method.
Internal condom
People who want to control their own STI and pregnancy protection, or who have a latex allergy.
FAQ
Which is more effective, male condom or internal condom?
Both reduce the risk of STIs as well as pregnancy. External (male) condoms are cheaper and easier to find and are a little more effective with typical use; internal condoms can be put in ahead of time and are usually latex-free.
Does the male condom or internal condom protect against STIs?
Both lower the risk of sexually transmitted infections as well as pregnancy, as long as they are used every time.
Can I switch from the male condom to the internal condom?
Usually yes. A clinician or pharmacist can tell you when to start the new method and whether you need extra protection (such as condoms) for a few days while switching.
More comparisons
Sources
Reviewed 1 November 2026. We link to the guidance itself so you can check it.