Top Contraceptive Method Combinations for Maximum Protection

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Some pairs of birth control work especially well together. Below are evidence-based combinations that increase pregnancy protection while keeping STI protection in mind. When you want precise numbers for your situation, use our Combined Contraceptive Effectiveness Calculator.

Matrix chart showing which birth control methods pair well: green=good combo, orange=OK, red=not recommended.
Contraceptive method combination map. Green = good combo, orange = OK with caveats, red = not recommended. Based on CDC/WHO guidance; see sources below.

How “combined effectiveness” works (in plain English)

Each method has a small chance of failure in a given time period. When two independent methods are used together, both would need to fail at the same time for pregnancy to occur—so the overall risk usually drops. (Independence isn’t perfect in real life, but this approach is a useful approximation.)1

Smart pairings

1) Pill + condom

  • Why: The pill prevents ovulation; condoms add a physical barrier and reduce STI risk.23
  • Good fit: You want strong pregnancy protection plus STI protection.
  • Tip: If a pill is missed or a condom breaks, consider emergency contraception (see below).

2) Hormonal IUD or Implant + condom

  • Why: LARC methods (IUD/implant) are highly effective without daily action; the condom adds STI protection and a second pregnancy barrier.23
  • Good fit: “Set-and-forget” users who still want STI protection or extra pregnancy insurance.

3) Copper IUD + condom

  • Why: Non-hormonal, long-term pregnancy prevention from the IUD; condoms help with STIs and provide a backup barrier.23
  • Good fit: You prefer hormone-free contraception but still want STI protection.

4) Fertility awareness (with training) + condom

  • Why: When FAM is used correctly, adding condoms (especially on fertile days) reduces risk further and adds STI protection.4
  • Good fit: Motivated trackers who can follow the method’s rules consistently.
Do not “double up” condoms. Don’t use two external condoms or an external and internal condom together—friction increases the chance of tearing.5

When to consider emergency contraception

If a condom slipped/broke or a pill was missed during your fertile window, emergency contraception (EC) can further reduce risk. See our Morning-After Pill Effectiveness Calculator for timing and expected impact.

Check your combined protection

Pick two methods (typical vs perfect use) to see combined effectiveness:

Select your methods to see their combined effectiveness.

Quick safety notes

  • STIs: Only condoms (external or internal) reduce most STI risks.6
  • Spermicides: Nonoxynol-9 can irritate tissue and is not recommended for STI/HIV prevention; frequent use may increase HIV risk.78
  • Medical choices: If you’re considering stacking hormonal methods, speak with a clinician about side-effects and whether there’s any added benefit for you.2

FAQ

Which two birth control methods are most effective together?

Combinations that pair a highly effective method (e.g., hormonal or copper IUD, implant, or the pill) with a condom tend to offer the best balance of pregnancy risk reduction and STI protection. Use our Combined Contraceptive Effectiveness Calculator to estimate protection for your exact pairing.

Should I use two condoms at the same time?

No. Do not use two external condoms or an external and internal condom together—the added friction increases the chance of tearing.

What if a condom slips or a pill is missed?

Consider emergency contraception as soon as possible and follow up with a reliable ongoing method. Our Morning-After Pill Effectiveness Calculator can help with timing and expected impact.

Sources

  1. Trussell J. Contraceptive failure in the United States. Contraception. 2011. (Typical vs perfect use failure rates.) ScienceDirect | NIH manuscript.
  2. CDC. U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2024. MMWR Recommendations.
  3. CDC. Condom use & prevention resources. (Correct and consistent use reduces risk.) Condoms & HIV Prevention.
  4. CDC. Effectiveness of contraceptive methods (overview table). PDF.
  5. WHO-aligned Family Planning Handbook. What condom users should not do (do not use male and female condoms together). Link.
  6. WHO Fact Sheet. Condoms. (Condoms effectively prevent most STIs and unplanned pregnancy when used correctly.) Link.
  7. CDC STI Guidelines. Primary Prevention Methods. (N-9 in condoms adds no STI benefit.) Link.
  8. WHO News Release. Nonoxynol-9 ineffective for HIV prevention; frequent use may increase risk. Link.

This page is informational and not medical advice. For personal recommendations, consult a qualified clinician.