Comparison
Pill vs Condoms
Quick answer
In typical use about 7 in 100 pill users and 13 in 100 condom users get pregnant a year.[src] Only condoms protect against STIs. Using both gives you both benefits.
Pill vs Condoms at a glance
| Pill | Condoms | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical use | 93% (7 in 100 pregnant a year) | 87% (13 in 100 pregnant a year) |
| How often | Every day | Every time you have sex |
| Lasts | One pack a month | One use |
| Hormones | Estrogen + progestin | None |
| Price (PH) | ₱53.25 to ₱1,437.50 | ₱38.75 to ₱53.75 |
| Free at health centers | Yes, subject to supply | Yes, subject to supply |
| Breastfeeding | Not in the early months | Suitable |
The difference, explained
The pill needs a prescription and a daily routine; condoms need neither and are sold from ₱38.75 for 3, or free at health centers. The pill does not interrupt sex; condoms have to be used every time and correctly.
Condoms are also your backup after missed pills: 7 days after 3 or more missed combined pills, 2 days after a late progestin-only pill.[src]
If you have a new partner or more than one, using condoms with the pill is the safest combination.
Which may suit you
- Pill may suit you if: You are in a mutually monogamous relationship and want higher effectiveness.
- Condoms may suit you if: You need STI protection or want no hormones and no prescription.
Your doctor decides with your full health history. Not sure where to start? Try Find my method.
Three legal routes
Get a prescription
All birth control pills need a prescription in the Philippines. Pick the route that suits you. For adults 18 and over.
Free at a health center
Barangay health centers, RHUs, DOH hospitals and Likhaan. Subject to supply.
See an OB-GYN in person
Clinic visit, prescription in hand. Bring it to any licensed pharmacy.
Online consult
A licensed doctor by video or chat. From ₱700 on some platforms.
Online consult options
For adults 18 and over. Fees are set by each provider and can change.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need condoms if I am on the pill?
For pregnancy, not if you take every pill. For STIs, yes.
This guide is for information. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or switching birth control.
Sources
- Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO and Johns Hopkins CCP
- Managing missed pills (Family Planning Handbook), WHO and Johns Hopkins CCP