It’s February 14th. Do you know what that means? Yes, it’s Valentine’s Day, but it’s also the start of National Condom Week! National Condom Week starts right on the most romantic holiday of the year and goes until the 21st. There are so many great reasons why condoms should be celebrated, both during National Condom Week and every other day. Here are just a few of them!

Condoms have a very high effectiveness rate.

There are actually two types of condoms: internal and external. While commonly known as the “female condom,” the internal condom is not only used by people who identify as female. External condoms are 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy when used perfectly and 85 percent effective with typical use. Internal condoms are 95 percent effective with perfect use, and 75 percent effective with typical use. Check out “How do I use a condom?” for tips—including checking the expiration date—on how to use an external condom!

Condoms prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

In fact, condoms are the only contraceptive that both acts as a form of birth control and protects against STIs! They help protect you and your partner during vaginal, oral and anal sex.

Condoms are easily accessible.

They can be found in lots of places: grocery stores, pharmacies, online and even some school health centers. You may be able to get them for free or at a low cost at some health clinics. Though external condoms are more widely available, you can find internal condoms online or in certain pharmacies. Being able to protect yourself and your partner without having to get a prescription or spend a lot of money is really important for a lot of teens.

Condoms have different uses!

Did you know they can also be used as a dental dam during oral sex? Just carefully cut off the ring at the base of the condom, cut it down the middle, open it up and place it over the vulva or the anus.

Condoms come in many varieties.

Not in love with the condom you chose? Have an allergy to latex? No worries—they come in different materials, shapes, sizes and flavors.

Whatever your needs, condoms can lessen your chances of both unintended pregnancy and contracting an STI. So from February 14th to the 21st (and afterward), take the time to celebrate this important safer sex method!