Dual contraception: why two methods are better than one

Protection comes in many layers. When you drive a car, you not only wear a seatbelt, but you also stick to the speed limit. When you ride a bike, you wear a helmet and also reflective clothes. Using two methods of protection gives you an extra layer of safety in case one fails. Why should sexual health be any different?

Dual contraception is using two methods to prevent both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at the same time–that means a barrier method (like condoms) plus a prescription method. For example, it could mean using condoms plus an IUD or implant, or condoms plus the birth control pill. Prescription birth control methods don’t protect against STIs, but condoms do, so using two methods that work in different ways provides the maximum amount of protection.

The majority (80%) of pregnancies in young adults are not intended.  People under 25 also account for half (that's 50%!) of new STI infections in the U.S. each year. These STIs often have no symptoms, and can lead to serious consequences like infertility (not being able to have a baby) or cancer. Luckily, many STIs are preventable and curable. Using condoms can significantly reduce your risk of STIs and pregnancy! 

Have a conversation with your partner about the best birth control method(s) for you. What is right for someone else may not work for your body or your life, and what worked for you at one point in your life may not be right for right now. If you’re having a hard time negotiating condom use, read our article with tips for talking about safer sex. If you want more information about birth control methods, check out our birth control topic, which also includes videos of other young parents talking about their experiences with different methods. 

There is one important instance where two methods are not better than one! Never use two or more condoms at the same time. Using multiple condoms at once actually creates friction and can break the condoms, making them ineffective at keeping you safe. Stick with a condom plus another non-barrier method for the best chance at preventing both pregnancy and STIs, and feel confident that you are doubly protected.