Condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy. But remember the rule of independent events: every time you have sex with a condom, there is a 2% chance of pregnancy.
The effectiveness of condoms decreases if they aren't used correctly. As with most forms of birth control, human error is a huge factor. However, the more often you use condoms and use them correctly, the more you reduce the risk of human error being a factor. Practice of use makes perfect, after all.
However, I would recommend doubling up on your birth control methods, not only as a safety net but for your own peace of mind. Most folks in family planning recommend using a hormonal method and a barrier method (ie birth control pills plus condoms). There are a wide variety of hormonal methods to choose from--from rings to patches to pills, and there are also a variety of synthetic hormones to choose from. However, if a hormonal method is not practical for your significant other, then examine other barrier methods (diaphragm, cervical cap) or the copper-T IUD.
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If I am not better, at least I am different. --Jean-Jacques Rousseau
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