If you are a sexually active woman, you need to know your birth control options. Choosing one can seem overwhelming, but it’s vital for your health to prevent an unwanted pregnancy and to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases. Here are six options you should know.

6 Birth Control Options

1. Condoms

Condoms protect you from STDs and are 85% effective. If you are using another birth control method, condoms are still a smart choice if you do not know for sure that your partner is free from STDs.

2. Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are 99% effective when used correctly. They must be taken daily, around the same time every day for maximum effectiveness. They do not prevent STDs and can be used with a condom. Some medications like antibiotics can compromise the effectiveness of birth control pills, and you need to take them for seven days before they are effective.

3. IUD

A hormonal or non-hormonal IUD is inserted into the uterus. It is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, but it does not protect against STDs. Once the IUD is inserted, you can’t feel it.  

4. Implant

The birth control implant is 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This small, thin rod is implanted in your arm and it releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. You are protected for up to four years, but it should be used in conjunction with a condom to prevent STDs.

5. Cervical Cap

A cervical cap is a silicone cup that you insert into your vagina. It prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm from entering your cervix, and it’s most effective along with spermicide. You can leave it in for up to two days. This method does not prevent STDs and is 71% effective at preventing pregnancy.

6. Shot

The birth control shot is administered by a doctor or nurse every three months and is 94% effective at preventing pregnancy. It does not protect against STDs. The shot—called Depo-Provera or “depo”—prevents ovulation with the hormone progestin.

These are just some of your birth control options. Talk to your gynecologist or primary care doctor to learn more. You may find that a combination of methods works best to prevent pregnancy and protect you from contracting an STD.