The more control you have over your sexual and reproductive health, the better off you’ll be. Here’s what you need to know.
For not getting pregnant.
Implants and IUDs, two long-acting reversible contraception methods, are both over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. For other types of birth control, "typical use" typically includes occasional mistakes — making them less effective (although better than nothing!). Read more: Why is the most effective form of birth control — the IUD — also the one no one is using?, via Time.com.
THAT SAID, condoms (and other barrier methods) are the only form of birth control that can minimize your risk of contracting or spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sex. So unless you are in a mutually monogamous relationship, and both you and your partner have been tested for STIs, be sure to use condoms.
pinterest.com / Via time.com
For controlling your future.
Take control over your future: Use contraception consistently and correctly. Being proactive about when and if you have children gives you much greater control over your life choices. See more on that here.
Guttmacher Institute / Via guttmacher.org
For not contracting or spreading STIs.
This is important info, whether you're in college or not. Some other important info:
Condoms can help minimize your risk of spreading and transmitting STIs, but they don't provide 100% protection — some infections are spread via skin-to-skin contact, for instance, which means that condoms aren't fully protective against them.
That said, while not all STIs are curable, they can all be treated and managed with appropriate medical care. The best thing you can do for yourself and your partners is to get tested, know your status, and get the treatment and care you need. And use condoms. They're not perfect, but they're definitely better than nothing.
Quick side note: What's the difference between STIs and STDs? Diseases have noticeable symptoms, while infections don't necessarily have any (YET). Find out more here. For the sake of inclusiveness, I'll be referring to any sexually transmittable infection as an STI throughout this article. If that's confusing to you, just imagine me saying "STD" instead.
For some motivation to get yourself tested.
GYT / Via pinterest.com