We asked some of our favorite college-age friends (who used to be on our Youth Leadership Team way back when!) about what they wish they knew about contraception before going to college. They talked and we're sharing...but we did change their names to protect their privacy. There's no shame in talking about birth control, but sometimes it's easier to do it when your name isn't involved!

Victoria M.

1. You don't need to have kids to get an IUD.
2. There are many different forms of birth control—not just condoms and the pill.
3. The pill isn't for everyone. It can have some side effects that you don't like, so you might need to try another method.
4. Some antibiotics can counteract the effectiveness of the pill.
5. Don't carry a condom in your wallet for too long because it can go bad.

Jen T.

1. Condoms are free at college.
2. NuvaRing doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
3. The health center will help you with anything—no question is too ridiculous.
4. There are more contraception myths/rumors floating around college campuses than anywhere else. Find a source you trust.
5. Female condoms exist.

Carlos M.

1. Sex is everywhere in college.
2. Getting contraception is easy; most college health centers have condoms available for free.
3. Know your boundaries before going to college—it's a different world with many different influences!
4. Using a condom correctly takes practice.
5. Condoms aren't 100% effective in preventing pregnancy or STIs.

Marcus R.

1. No contraception is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy or STIs.
2. There are lots of different kinds of birth control.
3. You have to follow the instructions on the box/packet/whatever for the contraception to be effective.
4. Everyone's bodies react differently to hormonal methods of birth control; if you don't like one kind, try another.
5. Contracption is easy to get.

What 5 things do you know about contraception that you think other teens should know? Did the things you read here clear up any myths or confusion? Tell us what you think in the comments! And get more info on birth control, waiting, and sexually transmitted infections in our Stay Informed section.