All contraceptive and protective methods have their advantages and disadvantages. An understanding of these advantages and disadvantages is key to informed decision making. The gynecologists and nurses at the Health Center, the College's Health Educator and the members of Peer Health are good sources of information here on campus.
Effectiveness is one of the things to consider when choosing a birth control method.
All effectiveness rates are based on the first year a couple uses a contraceptive method. Highest expected rates are the effectiveness found for uses of the method if used consistently and correctly. Typical used effectiveness rates are based on studies of average couples and take into account how well they use a method and how motivated they are to avoid pregnancy. STD prevention at this time does not mean it becomes a permanent method for the duration of your sexual life. The method which is right for a person at a given point in her or his life may evolve along with a changing body, personal preferences, needs, relationships and reproductive technology.