Since there is no perfect method, all choices involving birth control and/or Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) prevention are compromises. People engaging in heterosexual intercourse will likely choose to try to combine both contraceptive (birth control) effectiveness and STD/HIV prevention. When performing homosexual sex, the primary concern will be STD/HIV protection. There are a number of questions which should be considered when making a decision about a particular method:

• Is this method right for me? Why or why not?
  
  
• Am I comfortable with my ability to use it the right way?
  
  
• Does this method protect against STD/HIV transmission?
  
  
• How much money can I afford for the contraceptive and/or protective methods that are effective for me?
  
  
• Am I comfortable touching my body in the way the use of this method requires me to?
  
  
• Will I feel shy or embarrassed about using this method?
  
  
• Is this a first or new relationship?
  
  
• Do I plan to have more than one relationship at a time?  Does my partner?

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. It is important to keep in mind that the "best" method for an individual and her or his partner depends on which method the couple will use consistently and properly. 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.

Method	Highest Expected Effectiveness Rate	Typical User Effectiveness Rate
Abstinence	100%	?
Norplant	99.9%	99.9%
Depro-Provera	99.7%	99.7%
Oral Contraceptives	99.9%	97%
Condom & Spermicide	99%	95%
Condom Only	98%	88%
Spermicide Only	97%	79%
Diaphragm	96%	82%

Choosing a method for contraception and/or 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.