What's my best option?

Question

I'm a 22 year old virgin (as far as penetrative vaginal sex goes) but I'm considering having sex with my boyfriend in the near future. I haven't been to the gyno before (I know, I know, I need to go but it freaks me out) and I don't know if I'd be able to get an appointment soon or not. So what are my best options if I were to have sex with him in the near future?

Is a condom enough if used properly? Is it that difficult to use one perfectly? I ask that because it seems pretty damn simple but all the stats say typical use is like 80% effective and I just wonder how people mess it up. And if a condom alone isn't enough, which I'm a bit paranoid anyway so I'd probably want a backup, what over the counter options are the best?

I just don't know if I can get prescription BC any time soon and don't really want to have to discuss it with my parents because they don't have a positive view on premarital sex. But I want to be prepared and not have to worry if it happens.

Advice?

Answer

A regular condom properly used (not opened with teeth, not on inside-out) should be fine until you can meet your doctor. Also A regular doctor can prescribe birth control doesn't have to be a gynecologist.

Answer

Usually when people misuse condoms they put them on after penetration or they keep them in their wallets or in their car in the hear and just don't take care of them. You should be good with a condom and if you want extra protection have him pull out. As long is you take care of it, leave space at the tip for cum, put it on before penetration, pull out, and check for holes in the condom afterwards, you'll be fine!

Answer

I mean, I'm aware of the different options and how they work. But I want to hear from people who have had personal experience with the different OTC options what they prefer and would recommend. Like sponge vs gel or spermicide, what brands to use or avoid, etc. The nitty gritty real life stuff, not just the clean and simple version i can read about online haha

Answer

a condom might break and that's why it's only 80% (wrong) safe BUT I've read they are 98% safe - Condoms—when used correctly and consistently—prevent pregnancy about 98 percent of the time. - you can't get birth control pills OTC. you can only get Plan B after unprotected sex, or an accident, but don't use it as a birth control. it's a 'shot' of hormones and should be taken only on emergency cases. honestly, almost for all kinds of birth control, except condoms, you should see a gyno

What's my best option?

Let's Glow!

The Top Baby Tracker App: Embrace New Beginnings with Tender Care

The Top Fertility Tracker App: Your Path to Achieving Pregnancy

The Top Pregnancy App: Nurturing Your Journey to Motherhood

The Top Period Tracker for Empowering Your Menstrual Health Journey