Are condoms as well as the withdrawal method necessary?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi. I was wondering about contraception. I'm a 18 year old female and I've been on the pill for nearly three years, three different pills: Yasmin, Yaz and Monofeme. I'm almost certain all three gave me stomach pains as a side effect so recently I went off Monofeme. My boyfriend and I have decided to use condoms again and the withdrawal method at the same time when I'm ovulating and on fertile days just in case. I was wondering if this is effective and or necessary?

Dear Holly: Condoms are an effective method of contraception if used properly. There is a 1-2% failure rate for condoms, which can be further reduced with addition of a spermicide. I do not find withdrawal method to further reduce the chance of pregnancy, contrary it may lead to higher failure due to slippage of the condom. The additional benefit of condom use is that it prevents transmission of HIV and STD.