Q: If I’m using another method of birth control, do I still have to use condoms?
A: Unless you’re in an exclusive relationship and you and your partner have both recently been tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), you should still use condoms. Other birth control methods like birth control pills and IUDs (intrauterine devices) prevent pregnancy from occurring -as long as used correctly- but do NOT protect against STDs. By using both condoms and another form of birth control, called dual protection, you can protect yourself from unplanned pregnancy and STDs.
For more information and tips, visit Bedsider.
Dr. Diane Straub, Chief, Division of Adolescent Medicine & Professor of Pediatrics, USF Health and Medical Director, Ybor Youth Clinic