We’re all trying to be successful women out here, so let’s try to finish getting our education before we start popping out kids. Here are six common birth control options that might be right for you.
1. Pull Out Method
Effectiveness: non-existent
No. Just no. You’re in college; you’re smarter than this! Let’s be honest, guys are never as good at it as they say they are. It’s not effective, and it doesn’t protect you from STDs. Especially don’t use this method with random Friday night hookups with Brad from Theta Chi. Nope.
2. Condoms
Effectiveness: 85 percent
If you don’t want to deal with taking something every day or getting anything inserted, condoms are an easy and accessible option. It’s a far better choice than just pulling out, and they’re the best method for protecting against STDs. These are usually available for free on college campuses and places like Planned Parenthood. Otherwise, they can be picked up at pretty much any drugstore. Keep a stock of your own; don’t trust that the guy will always have one.
3. The Pill
Effectiveness: 91 percent
This option is for the responsible ladies who can trust themselves to take a pill at the same time every day. If you’re capable of doing this, the pill is an amazing option; it’s the most common method among women. While it can affect everyone differently, it has a reputation for clearing up acne, alleviating period cramps and flow and (*gasp*) preventing pregnancy! Yay, safe sex!
4. The Shot
Effectiveness: 94 percent
If you’d like something you have to worry about less often, the shot may be right for you. Administered about every 3 months — just about 4 times a year— the shot is a low-key and effective contraceptive that you can keep getting for as long as you want. Shots are the worst, but a little pinch every couple months is better than childbirth, right? Right.
5. IUD
Here’s for the ladies with busy lives: it’s a one-and-done, hassle-free and long-term contraceptive. The procedure, which takes only up to five minutes, inserts a small, T-shaped device into your uterus. This can last anywhere from three to 12 years, depending on the type. If you’re not planning on having children any time soon, get one of these; you won’t have to think about contraceptives again until your 30s if you don’t want to. Plus, it can significantly lighten and even stop your period altogether!
6. Implant
Now, if you’re like me — meaning you would never ever trust yourself to take a pill every single day but are also way too afraid to have something inserted in your cervix — implants have got you covered. Totally biased opinion here, but I think implants are the most underrated form of birth control. You get a shot in your arm to implant the device, then you’re baby-free for around four years! You’d be good through all of college, and you can get it removed whenever you want. It’s known for decreasing or eliminating periods as well!
Most of these methods are amazing and effective ways to prevent pregnancy; but, other than condoms, none of them protect against STDs. If you’re having regular sex with a significant other or F.W.B., then this may not really matter to you; but if you’re using Tinder or meeting people at parties (no judgment — you go, girl!) and want extra protection, it never hurts to double up these other contraceptives with a condom. Protect yo self.
If none of these options fit your fancy, there are plenty more — all usually available at your local OB/GYN or Planned Parenthood for cheap or even no cost. Whatever you choose to do, always practice safe sex!