Can You Use Two Condoms for Extra Protection?

Using a condom when having sex can help prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. But using two condoms won’t give you extra protection. In fact, you should never use more than one condom at a time.

Two condoms actually protect you less than one. Why? They can rub against each other, making the material weaker and more likely to break. When condoms tear, there’s a greater risk of STDs and unplanned pregnancy.

It’s important to use a condom every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Place it before you have sex and wear it throughout. But condoms aren't the most reliable way to avoid pregnancy. If you have vaginal sex, use a second kind of birth control, like birth control pills. The only way to fully avoid pregnancy — and STDs — is to not have sex.

Your doctor can tell you more. You can also go to a health clinic like Planned Parenthood.