Facts & Myths about contraception
The Facts
A woman can still get pregnant:If it is the first time she has sex
If she does not have an orgasm
If a man pulls out of her vagina before he comes
Whatever position the couple has sex in
If she has sex when she has a period
If she is not fully breastfeeding
If she douches (squirts fluid into the vagina).
A woman can still get pregnant:
Note: Douching changes the normal environment of the vagina and may introduce organisms higher into the reproductive system that normally don't belong there; it also disrupts the acid-base balance of the vagina, which weakens the defenses of the vagina and leaves women at higher risk for infections
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get pregnant if I have unprotected sex during my period?
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant from vaginal intercourse during menstruation. This is especially likely when the menstrual cycle is brief (21-22 days). Because sperm can live up to 7 days, and in some cases up to 10 days, in the cervical mucus of a woman's vagina and, in a short cycle, ovulation can occur within a few days of the last day of a woman's period, it is very possible for pregnancy to happen.
It is also possible to get pregnant if a man spills sperm near the opening of the vagina, either through ejaculation or pre-ejaculate fluid, and just one sperm makes its way into the vagina to an egg.
Does a skipped period always indicate pregnancy?
Stress and other factors may cause a delayed period; however, if you have light spotting or no period AND other symptoms, take a pregnancy test ASAP--you may be pregnant. If the result is positive, or if you want to double-check a negative result, the next step is to visit a medical provider for a pregnancy test.
Will using birth control cause me to become sterile?
No.
There are many myths about contraception. Rumours and propaganda do not die easily. When people hear something often enough they tend to believe it is true even if there are no facts to support it. Being well-informed and seeking the facts is one way to stay healthy and safe.