Hello, I'm 22 and I've been with my partner for a while now and we've both decided to, well, take this to the next level. The only problem is that I can't take the pill (or any kind of hormonal BC for that matter). I was wondering what your best suggestion for a non-hormonal birth control method would be?

There are many types of birth control. The issue is comfort with whatever you choose. While you are thinking about possibilities you might think about condoms and anti-spermicides. The combination of these two greatly increases their effectiveness. It is essential that you feel comfortable and that you "believe" in whatever you choose. Take your time, it is a big decision. Just remember to be safe. There are a lot of pretty awful sexually transmitted diseases out there. - Answer provided by Michael Gonzales, Ph.D., mfgonzal@speakeasy.net, www.upasoc.com.

The best birth control is a very individual choice. Since the two of you are young and just starting a sexual relationship, using a condom is a good idea -- especially if you both have not been tested for STDs yet. Condoms are cheap, easily accessible, and very effective if used correctly. Other options include a diaphragm or cervical cap (which require a doctor visit for proper fitting). These methods allow the woman to be more in control of the birth control decision, if that is an issue for you. However, these methods are less effective. The contraceptive sponge which was off the market until recently is another female-controlled over the counter option. It is currently available online and in Canada, and is soon to be on the shelves in the US. Finally, if you are not wanting to have children for at least five years, a non-hormonal, copper IUD may be an option. Discuss this with your doctor. Some doctors prefer using IUDs only in women who have had a previous pregnancy, though that is not absolutely necessary. However, they are not a short-term option. - Answer provided by L. Kris Gowen, PhD, EdM, drlkg@yahoo.com.

Responsibility for birth control lies with both individuals planning to have sex. There are many devices on the market now for women, including the diaphragm and cervical cap, both of which do not rely on hormones. To date, probably the best method for preventing pregnancy, while at the same time lowering the risk of sexually transmitted disease, is the use of the condom with spermicide. Place a drop of spermicide (ask your local pharmacist about the various types available in your area) at the internal tip of the condom before placing the condom on. Should the condom ever break during intercourse, there should be adequate spermicide to kill any sperm and/or viruses present. Should your partner find putting on the condom a chore, help make it fun for him (and yourself) by you placing it on him. Most men are quite excited watching their lover taking an active role in this manner.  If you really want to "rev his engine", try placing the condom on using only your mouth. Keep in mind that you will enjoy making love more when you are less anxious about unplanned pregnancy and being infected with sexually transmitted diseases. - Answer provided by Faizal Sahukhan, Ph.D., A.C.S., R.P.C., AASECT, drfaizal@multiculturalromance.com, www.multiculturalromance.com.

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