Contraceptives are not just birth control pills and intrauterine devices. Nonprescription contraceptives are much more available and can be just as effective, if used properly.

According to the Center for Reproductive Health Education in Family Medicine (RHEDI), condoms are the most widely used nonprescription contraceptive and they are easily the most available.

They can be purchased in places like Wal-Mart, where they cost between 30 and 70 cents per condom (depending on the quantity bought), or gas stations and convenience stores.

For example, the Cougs Corner Mart typically only sells packs of three or five, meaning the price will be closer to 70 cents per condom. One can even purchase them on campus using RDA.

Condoms are also available for free from the GIESORC office in the CUB.

For those allergic to latex, most vendors of latex condoms also have lambskin and non-latex alternatives.

Non-latex alternatives are more effective than lambskin, said Taylor Schwab, health education coordinator at WSU Health and Wellness Services.

“Lambskin is porous, things can still get through,” he said.

Female condoms are generally more expensive because they are more material. Wal-Mart offers female condoms at a price of about $1.50 per condom.

There is also less variability in the amount available for purchase. Condoms for men are available in packs that range from three to 40. Female condoms are only available in packs between 12 and 21.

It is also important to note condoms do not protect the user from all sexually transmitted infections.

“Many people don’t realize that condoms are not completely effective against STIs like genital warts,” said Victoria Braun, emotional health coordinator at WSU Health and Wellness Services.

Popular vendors like Wal-Mart also carry Plan B One-Step Levonorgestrel tablets and similar emergency contraceptives. It is much more cost-effective to purchase preventative contraceptives as emergency contraceptives are commonly around $50 per tablet.

These pills are to be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex. According to RHEDI, they are 94 percent effective when used within one day of unprotected sex. Effectiveness declines every day following.

Spermicides range from about 68 percent to 85 percent effective and come in a few different forms, according to RHEDI. Wal-Mart provides gels, foams, inserts and dissolvable films. Prices of spermicides vary based on type and quantity, the least expensive at Wal-Mart being about $5 and the most expensive about $25.

The vaginal contraceptive sponge is similar to contraceptive inserts. At Wal-Mart, they are available in packs of three for between $3 and $4. Planned Parenthood sexual health resources explain contraceptive sponges must be wet with clean water before insertion and cannot be reused.

Birth control pills, patches, rings and shots are only available with a prescription. Depending on insurance, birth control can be available for free at a local Planned Parenthood clinic.