Birth Control & Condoms

Before having sex, it’s important to know how you can protect yourself from pregnancy and STDs. Get info on birth control and condoms, including how to get them, use them and how well they work.

When Falling Is a Good Thing: The Decline in Teen Pregnancy

By Élan J. Jones, 17, Staff Writer

Imagine it's the year 1990. As you walk down the hall to your next class, you see a girl carrying her books over her stomach. She's about your age, 16 or 17, but something seems—different.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get birth control? How much does it cost? Do they tell my parents? How do I buy a condom? What kind do I buy? What do I do if a condom breaks? What is emergency contraception? Is it the same as the "morning-after pill"?
In the Forums

Have questions or comments about condoms and other forms of birth control? Go to the Forums and share your thoughts!

Poll

The head of the FDA ruled that emergency contraception should NOT be made available over-the-counter (without a prescription) for teens under 18. Do you agree with the ruling?

Resources
Here are some of the best Web sites, hotlines and books about birth control and condoms.