My new boyfriend has a latex allergy, so we can’t use latex condoms when we hook up.

Are other kinds of contraceptives, like lambskin condoms or spermicide, as effective at preventing pregnancy? We’ve both gotten ourselves tested for STDs, so that’s not a concern. — R.L., Ohio 

Lambskin condoms prevent pregnancy, but not STDs. Polyurethane condoms (such as Durex Avanti or Trojan Supra) are FDA-approved to prevent pregnancy and STDs and can be used with all kinds of lubes, but are more prone to breakage. Polyisoprene condoms (such as Lifestyles SKYN or Durex Avanti Bare) are the latest in condom technology. They’re effective against STDs and pregnancy, they offer better heat transference than latex, and they’re also stretchy, unlike polyurethane condoms.

I don’t like Nonoxynol-9, the most common spermicide used today. It’s so harsh it creates microscopic tears in the tender mucous membrane of your vagina, which can lead to an increased STI risk. The FDA’s website has this gem: “N9 may actually facilitate transmission of the disease for those who are at risk for HIV/AIDS.” I know you aren’t concerned about STIs at this time, but I think anything so irritating should be avoided. Also, there’s a chance your pussy will taste weird from all of the harsh chemicals.

Birth control pills are one of the most popular forms of pregnancy prevention in the United States. Some women love the Pill, but others don’t respond well to it. There are so many brands and types of birth control that it may take a while to find the right one for you. I use Ortho Tri-Cyclen, which, in addition to preventing pregnancy, helps with my cystic acne and shortens my period, but it made my best friend bat-shit crazy (she started crying all the time for no apparent reason). But birth control is like that. What works for one woman won’t work for another. It’ll take a trip to your doctor and some trial and error to find the right brand for you.

You might consider an intrauterine device or IUD. There are only two brands available in the US. The Mirena prevents pregnancy for up to five years and releases a low dose of hormones into your system. A more natural option is the ParaGard, a copper IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 10 years. Copper is toxic to sperm, so this device releases zero hormones into your system, but may give you heavier periods. Either of these devices can be easily removed by your doctor if you decide that you want to get pregnant, and you also won’t have to pay for birth control for a few years.

Every birth control option has its pros and cons. You need to do some research and experimentation to find the right choice is for you.

This column doesn’t constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult a qualified health care professional for your medical, psychological, or relationship problems.