There is no such thing as 100% assured safe sex. The only way to guarantee you will be free from STDs, STIs, and unwanted pregnancies are to remain abstinent. But being prepared, ready, and protected are always necessary before engaging in any sexual activity.

1. Condoms

Perhaps the most obvious of all the methods. Inexpensive and convenient, condoms are available at virtually any store around you—Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, or even a gas station. If you are allergic or sensitive to latex, polyurethane condoms might be the option for you, since they offer some protection against STIs. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, flavors, and designs so you are bound to find something that works for you and your partner

2. Get tested

Even if you believe you're completely clean, getting tested is still a great idea. Most STDs, such as chlamydia, are asymptomatic—meaning you won’t have any symptoms. A trip to your physician or your local Planned Parenthood can take care of this. Most insurances will cover STD testing, but if you do not have insurance, the cost averages from $50 to $200, depending on where you go. Many cities and universities will even offer a free STD screening occasionally.

3. Practice monogamy

Monogamy is the practice of only having one sexual partner. If you are in a relationship, serious or not, chances are you are already practicing monogamy. However, monogamy only works if both partners are already clean from the start. Establishing this will probably require a trip to the doctor’s office or your local Planned Parenthood. While you don’t need to have the “number” talk necessarily, you and your partner should have a discussion about where you believe the relationship is going and sexual histories.

4. Consider the pill

Oral contraceptives have a 99.9% effective rate, but only if taken correctly. The pill works by using a combination of estrogen and progestin (a chemical that prevents ovulation during pregnancy) to prohibit the brain from releasing chemicals called luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). LH and FSH play essential roles in preparing the body for pregnancy and making it easier to conceive. Birth control pills can also assist in the clearing of acne as well as the regulation of periods.

Effectiveness aside, birth control may not be for everyone, as they can cause some adverse side effects, such as increased risk of blood clots.

5. Avoid drugs and alcohol

If you do happen to partake in drug and alcohol consumption, mixing those actions with sex is just asking for trouble. Everybody knows that drugs and alcohol cloud your judgment and your ability to make wise, unregretful choices that you won’t resent in the morning. While under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you might make a choice to sleep with someone you might not have if you were sober and aware. You could possibly just forget to ask if your partner is STD-free or forget to pull that condom out. It might also be a good idea to bring some level-headed friends out with you, just in case.