Some contraceptive pairs reduce protection or add risk. If you want to “double up,” choose methods that complement each other—not ones that fight or cancel out. Below are combinations most people should avoid, plus better substitutes.
Pairs you shouldn’t mix
| Don’t mix | Why it’s a bad combo | Better instead |
|---|---|---|
| Two external condoms or an external + internal condom | Friction between condoms raises the chance of tearing or slippage; internal and external condoms are not designed to be used together. | Use one condom correctly every time. Pair with a hormonal method (pill, patch, ring, implant, IUD) if you want extra pregnancy protection. |
| Latex condom + oil-based lube (e.g., petroleum jelly, coconut oil) | Oil weakens latex and can cause breakage. | Use water- or silicone-based lubricants with latex condoms. |
| Pill + patch or pill + ring (two CHCs) | No added effectiveness; just higher total hormone exposure and more side-effects. Guidelines recommend using a single combined hormonal method at a time. | Pick one CHC (pill, patch, or ring) and combine with a condom if you want STI protection or a second barrier. |
| Two IUDs at once (e.g., copper + hormonal) | Not a clinical practice; increases risks of malposition, expulsion, and complications without added benefit. | Use one IUD. If you want more protection against STIs, add condoms. |
| Layering spermicides (e.g., gel + film + sponge) | Extra product ≠ extra protection; frequent use of some spermicides (nonoxynol-9) can irritate tissue and isn’t recommended for STI prevention. | Use one spermicide as directed—ideally with a condom or diaphragm. |
| Taking Plan B (LNG) + ella (UPA) together | They can counteract each other; using both does not improve emergency contraception (EC) effectiveness. | Choose one EC option. If you take ella (UPA), wait 5 days before starting or restarting hormonal birth control; use condoms in the meantime. |
If something goes wrong
Condom slip? Missed pills during your fertile window? Use our Morning-After Pill Effectiveness Calculator to see timing and expected impact.
Quick FAQ
Can I use two condoms at the same time?
No. Using two external condoms—or an external and internal condom together—creates friction and increases the chance of tearing or slippage. Use one condom correctly every time.
Is it safer to take the pill with the patch or ring?
No. Stacking combined hormonal methods doesn’t add protection and increases total hormone exposure. Use one CHC (pill, patch, or ring) and add a condom if you want a second layer.
Can I take Plan B and ella together?
No. Using levonorgestrel (Plan B) and ulipristal (ella) together can reduce effectiveness. Choose one. If you take ella, wait 5 days before starting hormonal contraception and use condoms in the meantime.
Sources (quick-read)
- CDC. U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2024 — guidance on emergency contraception and when to start hormonal methods after ulipristal (ella).
- CDC. Condom Effectiveness & correct use — correct/consistent use; avoid oil-based lubricants with latex.
- Family Planning Handbook. What condom users should not do — do not use male and female condoms together.
- WHO. Nonoxynol-9 ineffective for HIV prevention — frequent use can increase irritation and HIV risk.
- ACOG. Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (IUD & Implant) — patient guidance; LARC effectiveness overview and using condoms for STI protection.
This page is informational and not medical advice. Talk with a clinician about the right combination for you—especially if you have migraines with aura, smoke, or have clotting risk.