World Contraception Day: Choosing the Right Protection

In honour of World Contraception Day (September 26th), we’ve put together a guide to help you choose the protection that fits your lifestyle.

Whether your priority is preventing pregnancy, protecting against STIs, or just feeling more confident in the moment, knowing your options helps you make safer choices.

External Condoms

External condoms (often just called “condoms”) are the most popular protection method worldwide. Worn over the penis, they act as a barrier to stop sperm from entering the body. Condoms are also one of the best ways to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

They’re hormone-free, easy to buy, and available in many sizes, materials, and textures. From air-thin to ribbed, dotted, or flavoured, condoms make safe sex enjoyable as well as protective.

EXS have one of the largest range of condoms available on the market so there really is something for everyone!

Internal Condoms

Internal condoms (sometimes called “female condoms”) are worn inside the vagina and offer protection against both pregnancy and STIs. They can be inserted in advance, can be non-latex, and give the receptive partner more control. While they might take some practice to get right, they’re a great safe sex option once you’re familiar with them.

Hormonal Options

Pills, patches, injections, and rings all work by adjusting hormone levels to prevent pregnancy. They’re highly effective when used correctly, but they don’t protect against STIs. Side effects can vary, so finding the right hormonal method often means talking to a healthcare professional and being open to switching if one doesn’t suit you.

Long-Acting Contraceptives

Implants and IUDs (sometimes called “the coil”) provide long-term contraception with little day-to-day thought once fitted by a professional. They’re reliable and convenient, though they don’t prevent STIs and need a doctor or nurse to insert and remove them.

Emergency Contraception

Accidents happen. Maybe a condom breaks or sex wasn’t protected. Emergency contraception can reduce the risk of pregnancy if taken as soon as possible after sex. It’s an important backup but isn’t designed for regular use and won’t stop STIs.

How to Choose the Best Protection for You

Picking the right option depends on your needs and comfort level. Ask yourself:

Do I want to prevent both pregnancy and STIs?
Am I looking for a hormone-free option?
Do I prefer something to use every time, or a long-acting method?
How important are convenience and spontaneity to me?

Why Condoms Are Still a Top Choice

Condoms remain one of the most reliable, accessible, and flexible safe sex products. They’re easy to carry, easy to use, and they give you protection in the moment. Plus, with today’s range there’s something for everyone.

At EXS, we design condoms to make safe sex feel better. Our collection includes classic styles, textured options for extra sensation, fun flavoured condoms, and ultra-thin designs for a barely-there feel. If you’re unsure where to start, check out our full range to find the best condom for you.

Final Thought

Your choice of contraception might change over time, and that’s completely normal. What matters most is finding what makes you feel safe, comfortable, and confident.

Explore our EXS condoms range today and discover the protection that fits your lifestyle.