We’ve all heard sex is the bee’s knees—but before immersing yourself in the world of honey around you, what are YOU going to do to protect yourself?
The Pull-Out Method:
Reliability Meter: LOW, NO PREGNANCY OR STD PROTECTION
The pull-out method may have worked for your BFF, but there’s no guarantee this method will save you from an unwanted pregnancy. Not to mention, you have no way of protecting yourself from sexually transmitted diseases (STD). If we face the facts, college is the prime time for students to be experimenting with sex. Be wary that anyone you hook-up with could potentially have an STD. So, from a fellow gal pal, please don’t rely on this technique as a reputable option.
Condoms:
Reliability Meter: HIGH
Whether you use a female or male condom, this protection prodigy has got your back. When used correctly, the condom works full time (unless broken, yikes) to ensure your genitalia is protected from STD’s and any unwanted fluid (gross). These babies are 98% effective and you don’t have to go to any awkward doctor’s appointments because they are available over-the-counter pretty much anywhere. Throw one in your purse on a night out—and you’re good to go! Better to be safe than sorry, right?
The Pill:
Reliability Meter: HIGH, BUT NO STD PROTECTION
Ah, yes. We have made it to the pill. This is my current method for preventing pregnancies but let me tell you—its had its ups and downs. I’ve been through several different brands to find the right one for me and it’s been a hell of a rollercoaster ride. From gaining weight to clearing my face of acne, it’s sometimes hard to decide whether birth control is helping or harming your body. But in terms of preventing pregnancy, its initial duty; the pill has never let me down. I highly recommend this method if you are responsible and will remember to take the pill. This method also works hand-in-hand with a condom for STD protection.
The IUD or Implant:
Reliability Meter: HIGH, BUT NO STD PROTECTION
If you know you are a forgetful person, the Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD) or implant is the way to go. The IUD is over 99% effective and lasts in your uterus for 3 to 6 years. It is an ideal alternative to a pesky pill with the same benefits. Luckily, if you decide the IUD isn’t for you, it’s reversible, and you can find another form of birth control that better suits your body.
Similar to the IUD, the implant is a small rod known as nexplanon (sounds scary I know!) that is inserted into your arm. The procedure takes less than five minutes. The doctor numbs your arm before making a small incision on the inside of your upper left arm and placing the rod right underneath the skin. Quick and almost painless! The nexplanon lasts up to three to four years before it needs to be replaced. This is one of the newest forms of birth control but is quickly becoming a popular choice for young women because it takes no effort to keep up with.
The Depo Shot:
Reliability Meter: HIGH, BUT NO STD PROTECTION
When you are injected with the shot, your body prevents the process of ovulation, which makes pregnancy impossible. If you are not afraid of needles, this form of birth control is an up-and-coming choice. However, you will have to make a trip to your doctor’s office every three months because that is how long the shot supplies the birth control in your body. If you tend to fall through on plans (or your doctors appointments) I would not recommend the shot.
With several choices to choose from, consider giving birth control a try. Enjoy your wild college nights, but always keep protecting yourself a top priority.