Consumer Reports Health recently analyzed 20 brands of condoms and found that 19 of them were effective means of birth control and STD prevention.

Seven of the brands scored perfectly: Durex Performax, Lifestyles Ultra Sensitive Lubricated, Lifestyles Warming Pleasure, Trojan Her Pleasure Ecstasy, Trojan Magnum Lubricated, Trojan Ultra Ribbed Ecstasy, and Trojan Ultra Thin.

Of course, the use of a condom isn’t 100 percent effective; even people who use condoms occasionally get pregnant or contract an STD. But they drastically reduce the chances of both.

As college students, we experience all kinds of desires and emotions that are natural. When done responsibly, engagement in sexual activity can be both physically and emotionally rewarding. But we must also be aware of the potential risks involved.

Every year in this country, one in four teens gets an STD; one in two Americans get one by the time they’re 25. Almost half a million teenagers give birth annually.

If you’re already sexually active or are thinking about becoming so, talk to your partner about being safe. Strongly consider the use of contraception, especially condoms. The good news is that there are plenty of kinds to choose from.