If you have a question like can I get pregnant if, or I want to know about birth control, when can test for pregnancy, how to tell my parents I want to go on birth control, etc, read here.
Facts and Myths about Getting Pregnant
Can you get pregnant just hanging out in a hottub? How about if you haven't had your period yet? Learn some of the myths and truths about getting pregnant.
You can get pregnant if you haven't had your period
TRUE. Remember, a woman's period is the END of her fertility cycle. This is happening because there was no egg and sperm meeting, so the blood lining the uterus is being discarded. But if you're having sex, your body is probably at the point that it is going to start your period shortly. Many girls have gotten pregnant because they had sex during their first egg cycle.
You have to have actual penetration to get pregnant
FALSE. All that has to happen is that the sperm have to get in to the egg. A sperm's entire mission in life is to get to the egg - they are incredibly powerful and mobile. Couples that have 'gotten excited' in a hot tub have had the woman get pregnant. Couples that have 'fooled around' next to each other in a bed or car have ended up with the woman pregnant. The male doesn't have to fully ejaculate for this to happen - often just a few drops are enough.
Douching with coke/pepsi/etc. will prevent pregnancy
FALSE. Some women feel that getting liquid inside their vagina after sex will somehow kill or wash out the sperm. What it actually ends up doing is pushing the sperm up higher into the vagina, so it has an even better chance of finding the egg.
I'm only able to get pregnant on certain days, so otherwise I'm safe
FALSE. Sure, most women have a cycle of 28 days. However, this is not a Swiss-watch-mechanism we're talking about. It's a human body, affected by stress, foods, and other external conditions. Women often have period skip, or start or end earlier or later. Many times they are regular, but this is never a guarantee.
Urban Legends
Aspirin and Getting Pregnant
Some believe that taking aspirin before or after sex will help hinder pregnancy. This is completely untrue. Aspirin might help with heart disease, but it has no effect on pregnancy.
Breastfeeding and Pregnancy
It might seem like an old wives´ tale, but breastfeeding really does lower your chances of pregnancy. It does not PREVENT pregnancy though, so take precautiouns unless you wish to be pregnant again.
Conception Without Intercourse
It is very possible for a woman to become pregnant while remaining a virgin.
Douching with Sprite can Prevent Pregnancy
This urban legend claims if the girl douches with Sprite, 7-Up, Coca-cola or another carbonated drink that she can wash sperm out of her. This simply isn´t true.
Getting Pregnant During your Period
There´s an urban legend that you can´t get pregnant during your period. Because a woman´s cycle is not 100% predictable, there is never a perfectly safe period as far as pregnancy goes.
Getting Pregnant During your Period
There´s an urban legend that you can´t get pregnant during your period. Because a woman´s cycle is not 100% predictable, there is never a perfectly safe period as far as pregnancy goes.
Getting Pregnant Through Underwear
Some believe that as long as you keep your underwear on, you can´t get pregnant. Unfortunately for them, sperm care little about things like underwear - and they´re incredibly mobile.
Girl On Top Prevents Pregnancy
Some believe that having the girl on top - or having sex standing up - will prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately for them, sperm don´t care about gravity. They have their own means of locomotion.
Jumping Up and Down to Prevent Pregnancy
There´s an urban legend that a girl can jump up and down after sex to prevent pregnancy. That old wives tale is centuries old and is completely untrue.
Losing Virginity and Pregnancy
Many virgins believe they can´t get pregnant the first time they have sex. They are quite mistaken. All a pregnancy takes is a sperm getting inside the vagina - something that *definitely* happens during all sex.
Pulling Out and Preventing Pregnancy
Sometimes guys offer to "pull out" to prevent pregnancy. Studies show that of 100 women that try this method, 19 will get pregnant within the year.
Sneezing and Sex
Some feel that a girl can sneeze all of the sperm out of her. This is far from the truth - acts like sneezing do little to deter a sperm from its search for an egg. If you are sexually active at all, be sure to take precautions. It only takes one mistake for you to end up with a very serious situation, one that will affect the rest of your life.
Myths and Truths About Getting Pregnant
Things you might have heard about getting pregnant… true or false?
1. Is it impossible to get pregnant the first time you have sex?
It is a common myth that you can't get pregnant the first time you have sex. This is simply not true. There is always a possibility that you will get pregnant if you have sex – even the very first time. If you are having sex and don't want to get pregnant, you will need to choose a method of contraception that will suit your body and lifestyle.
2. Can you take a pregnancy test as soon as you have had sex?
No. In order for a test to give you an accurate result, your body needs to go through several early stages of conceiving. If you have sex and this results in fertilization of an egg, it will then take about 6-7 days for this fertilized egg (which gradually becomes an embryo) to travel down the Fallopian tube and into your womb. The embryo then has to implant into the lining of the womb (implantation) for a pregnancy to continue and for the pregnancy hormone (hCG) to be produced. It is hCG that registers positive on your pregnancy test, but the level won't be high enough to be detected for another few days yet. By the time you would expect to have had your next period, the levels are sufficient to give you a reading that is 99% accurate.
If you are testing before you expect your period to start, we recommend you test with your first urine of the day.
To determine when your next period is due, it is important to have kept track of your usual cycle length over a several month period. You can calculate cycle length by counting the number of days from the first day of a period until the day before your next period starts. Once you know your usual cycle length, you can anticipate when your next period is expected to start.
·You can test for pregnancy whenever you feel the urge to urinate. Avoid excessive fluid intake before testing.
·If you have irregular cycles, you should allow for your longest cycle in recent months before testing.
·If you have no idea when your period is due we recommend testing not less than 19 days after the last time you had unprotected sex.
·If the result is 'Not Pregnant', and pregnancy is still suspected, you should wait at least 3 days before testing again as you may have tested too early.
3. Are you more likely to get pregnant on the 14th day of your cycle?
No, not necessarily. This is a myth that has been taught in many junior high health classes, but differs from woman to woman—and even from cycle to cycle for any particular woman. When you ovulate depends on your cycle length and the regularity of your ovulation pattern. You are at your most fertile the day before and the day you actually ovulate; this is generally 12-16 days before your next period starts. Although you are at your most fertile during the two days around ovulation, sperm can survive for up to 5 days, so even if you have sex days before you ovulate, the sperm may survive and still be ready to fertilize the egg when you ovulate.
4. If you have sex during your period can you get pregnant?
It is unlikely, but not impossible, for you to get pregnant during your period. You are only fertile, and therefore able to get pregnant, on a few days each cycle – the days leading up to and around the time of ovulation (when an ovary releases an egg). If, however, you have a short cycle length e.g. 20 days, you could be ovulating around Day 6 of your cycle and could, therefore, be fertile very early in your cycle even though you are still bleeding.
Birth Control Choices for Teens
Having sex is about making choices.·We choose when we are ready and when we want to wait.·We choose our partners.·We choose what we want to do and what we don't want to do with our partners.·We can choose to do it in the safest way.Teens who have vaginal intercourse need to make choices about birth control. One of the great joys of life can be having a baby — when we are ready and are able to provide all the love and care a child needs. One of the great setbacks in life can be an unintended pregnancy — especially for a young woman.Planned Parenthood believes that sexual experience can be a positive source of personal enrichment and satisfaction when it is based on informed choices and mature decisions — whether for pleasure or procreation.Guidelines for Sex Partners·Have each other's consent.·Never use pressure to get consent.·Be honest with each other.·Treat each other as equals.·Be attentive to each other's pleasure.·Protect each other against physical and emotional harm.·Guard against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection.·Be clear with each other about what you want to do and don't want to do.·Respect each other's limits.·Accept responsibility for your actions.Continuous AbstinenceIf You ChooseContinuous Abstinence...... you will not have sex play with a partner. This will keep sperm from joining egg.Effectiveness100%·prevents sexually transmitted infectionsAdvantages·no medical or hormonal side effects·is endorsed by many religious groupsDisadvantages·People may find it difficult to abstain for long periods of time.·Women and men often end their abstinence without being prepared to protect themselves against pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.Advantages for teens —Sexual relationships present physical and emotional risks. Abstinence is a very good way to postpone taking those risks until you are able to handle them.Women who abstain until their 20s — and who have fewer partners in their lifetimes — may have certain health advantages over women who do not. They are less likely to·get sexually transmitted infections·become infertile·develop cancer of the cervixOutercourseIf You ChooseOutercourse...... you need to know that for some people, outercourse is sex play without vaginal intercourse. For others, it is sex play with no penetration at all — oral, anal, or vaginal. Some people also believe that any kind of penetrative sex play is too risky to be called "safer sex." But many people sometimes have oral and anal sex — to avoid pregnancy or to "preserve their virginity."Lower-risk forms of outercourse include·Kissing — Many people explore different ways of kissing. They may also explore kissing different body parts.·Masturbation — Many people enjoy touching their own sex organs. It's the most common way to be sexual. Partners can masturbate alone, together, or watch each other. They may hug and kiss while they do it.·Erotic Massage — Many couples touch and rub each other's sex organs using their hands, bodies, or mouths.·Body Rubbing/Frottage — Many couples rub their bodies together — especially their sex organs — for pleasure and orgasm.·Fantasy — Couples can read or watch sexy stories or pictures together. They can also share or act out sexy fantasies. People do it in person, on the phone, surfing the Internet, or through e-mail or instant messaging.EffectivenessOuterco... is 100% effective against pregnancy unless pre-ejaculate or sperm gets onto the vulva or into the vagina.Outercourse is also effective against sexually transmitted infections. It reduces the risk of HIV/AIDS and many other sexually transmitted infections — unless body fluids, such as semen and vaginal fluids, are exchanged through oral or anal sex play. But some infections, like herpes and HPV, can be passed by skin-to-skin contact.Advantages·no hormonal side effects·can be used as safer sex if no body fluids are exchanged·may make sex play last longer, enhance orgasm, and increase intimacy between partners·can be used when no other birth control methods are availableDisadvantages·Women and men may let outercourse lead to intercourse without being ready to protect themselves from pregnancy or infection.·Some people may find it hard to abstain from intercourse.·Sperm may come in contact with the vagina.Advantages for teens —Outercourse can completely satisfy both partners and take a lot of pressure off young women and men.Many teen women get little or no pleasure from sexual intercourse because their partners do not know how to give them pleasure. Outercourse helps partners learn about their bodies and how to give themselves and each other sexual pleasure.Women have very different sexual response cycles than men. Men usually have one orgasm, and it is usually some time before they can have another. Women can have frequent and multiple orgasms. But many women don't have orgasms from vaginal stimulation. Most of them can have orgasms when the clitoris is stimulated — whether or not they are having vaginal intercourse. Sex play without intercourse can help women learn how to have orgasms.Men also enjoy outercourse — even if they're shy about it in front of their partners. Outercourse allows men to be truly erotic without worrying about how well they "perform".Caution — Outercourse is a form of birth control. It is also a lot like foreplay. They both add to sexual excitement and pleasure. And they can both lead to orgasm. The difference is that foreplay usually leads to intercourse. Outercourse may make you feel like having intercourse. Be careful! If you are going to have intercourse, you need to use another form of birth control — and protection from infection.The Shot — Depo-ProveraIf You ChooseThe Shot — Depo-Provera...... your clinician will give you a shot of the hormone progestin every 12 weeks to·usually, prevent release of egg·less often, thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from joining egg·thin the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggEffectiveness97–99.7%·not effective against sexually transmitted infections·latex or female condom can reduce risk of infectionAdvantages·prevents pregnancy for 12 weeks·doesn't need to be taken daily or put in place before vaginal intercourse·can be used by women who cannot take estrogen·may reduce menstrual cramps·reduces anemia·helps prevent cancer of the endometrium (lining of the uterus)·can be used while breastfeedingDisadvantagesDMPA use is associated with temporary bone thinning. Talk to your health care provider about the risks. To protect your bones, get regular exercise and get extra calcium and vitamin D — either through your diet or by using supplements.·Side effects include irregular or late periods as well as weight gain, headaches, depression, abdominal pain, hair loss, increased hair on the face or body, nervousness, skin rash, or spotty darkening of the skin.·Side effects cannot be reversed until medication wears off (up to 12 weeks).·May cause delay in getting pregnant after shots are stopped.Cost$50 for each injection. Often less at clinics. $35–$125 for an exam, if needed. Some health centers charge according to income. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area.Advantage for teens —The shot is one of the most private prescription methods of birth control. No one can tell you're using it. There is no packaging or other evidence of use that might embarrass some users. The PillIf you chooseThe Pill...... your clinician will prescribe the right pill for you. Take one pill once a day. Complete one pill pack every month. Combination pills contain estrogen and progestin. Others are progestin-only. Pills contain hormones that work in different ways. Combination Pills·usually, prevent release of egg·also, thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from joining egg·thin the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggProgestin-Only Pills·usually, thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from joining egg·less often, prevent release of egg·thin the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggEffectiveness92–99.7%·not effective against sexually transmitted infections·latex or female condoms can reduce risk of infectionAdvantages·nothing to put in place before vaginal intercourse·less menstrual cramping and menstrual flow·reduces the risk of pelvic inflammatory diseaseCombination Pillsoless acne, iron deficiency anemia, and premenstrual tensionoperiods become more regularoreduces risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, noncancerous growths of the breast, and ovarian cystsocan be used to control timing and frequency of periodsofewer tubal pregnanciesomay protect against osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)Progestin-Only Pillsocan be used by women who cannot take estrogenDisadvantages·must be taken daily·temporary side effects that usually clear up after a few months include irregular bleeding, loss of monthly period, weight gain or loss, nausea, breast tenderness, changes in mood, headaches, and other discomfortsCombination Pillsorare but serious health risks, including blood clots, heart attack, and stroke — women who are 35 and older and smoke are at greater riskProgestin-Only Pillsomust be taken at the same time of day, every dayoside effects include irregular periods and spotting between periodsCost·$20–$35 for monthly pill pack atdrugstores. Often less at clinics.·$35–$125 for an exam, if needed.Some health centers charge according to income. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area.Advantages for teens —The pill is often appropriate for teens, even if they're not having intercourse, because teen women are more likely than older women to have acne, cramps, and irregular periods. Women who take the combination pill have less acne, fewer cramps, and more regular periods than women who don't use a similar hormonal method. Women who take the progestin-only pill have fewer cramps than women who don't use a similar hormonal method.Caution —Don't smoke while you take the pill. Doing so will increase your risk of heart attack, blood clots, and stroke.Don't forget to take your pill. About one out of three users often forget to take the pill. The pill won't work for anyone who forgets to take it every day.If you choose the pill, schedule taking it with something else you do every day — like brushing your teeth.If you forget ONE active combination pill, take it as soon as you remember. This means you may take two pills in one day. If you forget TWO or more pills, call your clinician immediately.If you forget ONE progestin-only pill, take it as soon as you remember. This means you may take two pills in one day. If you take your progestin-only pill more than three hours late, you must use a backup method of birth control — like a latex or female condom — for 48 hours.Remember to take your pill whether or not you're having sex.Don't share your pills. Prescription methods like the pill are personalized for each woman's use. They should not be shared.The Patch — Ortho-EvraIf you chooseThe Patch — Ortho-Evra......you will place a thin plastic patch on the skin of your buttocks, stomach, upper outer arm, or upper torso once a week for three weeks in a row. Use a new patch each week. Do not use a patch for the fourth week.The patch protects against pregnancy by releasing estrogen and progestin that·usually, prevent release of egg·also, thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from joining egg·thin the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggEffectivenessUp to 99.7%·not effective against sexually transmitted infections·latex or female condoms can reduce risk of infectionAdvantages·protects against pregnancy for one month·nothing to put in place before vaginal intercourse·no pill to take dailyResults of long-term studies won't be available for some time, but researchers assume the advantages of using the patch are similar to the advantages of using the combination pill:·periods become more regular·less menstrual cramping, acne, iron deficiency anemia, premenstrual tension, and menstrual flow·reduces risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, pelvic inflammatory disease, noncancerous growths of the breast, ovarian cysts, and may protect against osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)·fewer tubal pregnanciesDisadvantages·skin reaction at the site of application·may not be as effective for women who weigh more than 198 poundsResults of long-term studies won't be available for some time, but researchers assume the disadvantages of using the patch are similar to the disadvantages of using the combination pill:·temporary side effects that usually clear up after a few months include irregular bleeding, loss of monthly period, weight gain or loss, nausea, breast tenderness, changes in mood, headaches, and other discomforts·rare but serious health risks, including blood clots, heart attack, and stroke — women who are 35 and older and smoke are at greater riskCost$30–$35 for monthly supply of patches. $35–$125 for an exam, if needed.Some health centers charge according to income. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area.Caution —Don't smoke while you use the patch. Doing so may increase your risk of heart attack, blood clots, and stroke.The patch works best when it is changed on the same day of the week for three weeks in a row. Pregnancy can happen if an error is made in using the patch — especially if·it becomes loose or falls off for more than 24 hours·the same patch is left on the skin for more than one weekThe Ring — NuvaRingIf you chooseThe Ring — NuvaRing......you will insert a small, flexible ring deep into your vagina for three weeks in a row and take it out for the fourth week.The Ring protects against pregnancy by releasing estrogen and progestin that·usually, prevent release of egg·also, thicken cervical mucus to keep sperm from joining egg·thin the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggEffectivenessUp to 99.7%·not effective against sexually transmitted infections·latex condoms can reduce risk of infectionAdvantages·protects against pregnancy for one month·nothing to put in place before vaginal intercourse·no pill to take daily·does not require a "fitting" by a clinicianResults of long-term studies won't be available for some time, but researchers assume the advantages of using the ring are similar to the advantages of using the combination pill:·periods become more regular·less menstrual cramping, acne, iron deficiency anemia, premenstrual tension, and menstrual flow·reduces risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, pelvic inflammatory disease, noncancerous growths of the breast, ovarian cysts, and may protect against osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)·fewer tubal pregnanciesDisadvantages·incre... vaginal discharge·vaginal irritation or infection·may not be suitable for women who have weak pelvic muscles or chronic constipationResults of long-term studies won't be available for some time, but researchers assume the disadvantages of using the ring are similar to the disadvantages of using the combination pill:·temporary side effects that usually clear up after a few months include irregular bleeding, loss of monthly period, weight gain or loss, nausea, breast tenderness, changes in mood, headaches, and other discomforts·rare but serious health risks including blood clots, heart attack, and stroke — women who are over 35 and smoke are at greater riskCost$30–$35 monthly for ring. $35–$125 for an exam, if needed.Some health centers charge according to income. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area.Caution — Don't smoke while you use the ring. Doing so will increase your risk of heart attack, blood clots, and stroke.Don't use the ring with another vaginal contraceptive — female condom, diaphragm, cap, or shield.The CondomIf you chooseThe Condom...... you will cover the penis before intercourse with a sheath made of thin latex or plastic to keep sperm from joining egg.Lubricate condoms with spermicide to immobilize sperm for increased protection against pregnancy.Effectiveness85–98%L... condoms offer very good protection against HIV — the virus that can cause AIDS. They also reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections, including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, HPV, and herpes.Increase your protection:·Do not use oil-based lubricants, like Vaseline on latex condoms.·Use correctly: Place rolled condom on tip of hard penis. Squeeze air out of half-inch space at tip. Pull back foreskin and roll condom down over penis. Smooth out any air bubbles. Lubricate with water-based lubricant, like K-Y jelly. Hold condom against penis to withdraw.·Also use spermicides for increased contraceptive effectiveness.Advantages·inexp... and easy to buy in drugstores, supermarkets, etc.·can help relieve premature ejaculation·can be put on as part of sex play·can be used with other methods to reduce risk of infectionDisadvantages·uncoope... partners·latex allergies·loss of sensation·breakageCost$.50 and up. Some health centers give them away or charge very little — sometimes according to income. Check with your local family planning clinic for information.Advantages for teensOne out of four sexually active teens has a sexually transmitted infection. Teens are also likely to have more than one partner during their adolescence, which increases the likelihood of getting an infection. Using latex condoms is the best way to protect against infection for women and men of all ages who have sexual intercourse. They are also inexpensive and widely available.CautionThe cervix in pregnant women, young girls, and teen women is especially vulnerable to infection. Even as mature adults, women's sexual anatomy makes them 10 to 20 times more likely than men to become infected with sexually transmitted infections.No matter how old you are, it is very important to use condoms with your other method of birth control — whenever you are at risk for getting a sexually transmitted infection.Using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissues and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.A Prescription Barrier MethodIf you chooseA Prescription Barrier Method...... your clinician will fit you with a shallow latex cup — diaphragm —, a silicone cup shaped like a sailor's hat — FemCap —, or a silicone cup with an air valve — Lea's Shield. The clinician also will show you how to put spermicide into the diaphragm, cap, or shield and insert it in your vagina to keep sperm from joining egg.Effectiveness84–94% — Diaphragmabout 85% — Lea's Shieldabout 86% — FemCap for women who have never been pregnant or given birth vaginally*about 71% — FemCap for women who have given birth vaginally** Effectiveness rates for FemCap are those for an earlier version of the device. Although no studies have been published yet, the manufacturers of FemCap report that the current device is likely to be more effective.·not effective against sexually transmitted infections·latex or female condoms can reduce risk of infectionAdvantages·no major health concerns·can last from six months up to several yearsDisadvantages·can be messy·allergies to latex, silicone, or spermicide·should not be used during vaginal bleeding or infectionDiaphragmoincreased risk of bladder infectionocan only be left in place for up to 24 hoursFemCapodifficult for some women to useocan only be left in place for up to 48 hoursLea's Shieldodifficult for some women to useomay cause discomfort for some women or their partnersocan only be left in place for up to 48 hoursCost·$15–$75 for diaphragm, cap, or shield. Often costs less at family planning clinics.·$50–$200 for examination.·$8–$17 for supplies of spermicide jelly or cream.Some health centers charge according to income. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area.Advantages for teens —Many teen women have vaginal intercourse only now and then. Many of them prefer to use a prescription barrier method on those occasions. That way they avoid the possible ongoing side effects of prescription methods with hormones.Caution — Prescription methods like the diaphragm, FemCap, Lea's Shield, and the Pill are intended for each woman's use. Do not share them with friends. The diaphragm should be checked to see if it's the right size after a change of 20 percent of your weight, childbirth, or abortion. FemCap is prescribed based on whether a woman has been pregnant — some women may need a new FemCap following pregnancy. All prescription barrier methods should be checked for weak spots or holes by being held up to a light or filled with water and checked for leaks.Using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.The Female Condom or SpermicideIf you chooseThe Female Condom or Spermicide...... you will follow package instructions and insert female condom — a plastic pouch with flexible rings at each end — deep into your vagina to keep sperm from joining egg,or... you will follow package instructions and insert spermicide — contraceptive foam, cream, jelly, film, or suppository — deep into your vagina shortly before intercourse to immobilize sperm and keep them from joining egg.Follow package instructions to remove female condom. Spermicide dissolves in vagina.Effectiveness79–95% — female condom71–82% — spermicideThe female condom reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, but spermicide doesn't offer protection from infection. Use the female or latex condom with other methods for protection against infection.Advantages·easy to buy in drugstores, supermarkets, etc.·insertion may be part of sex play·erection unnecessary to keep female condom in place·female condoms can be used by people allergic to latex or spermicide·external ring of female condom may stimulate clitorisDisadvantagesFemale Condom·may be noisy·may irritate vagina or penis·may slip into vagina during intercourse·may be difficult to insertSpermicide·not particularly effective when used alone — using condoms or a prescription barrier method, as well, greatly increases effectiveness·can be messy·may irritate vagina or penis — which may increase risk of infection·may set off allergiesCost·$2.50 for female condom.·$8 for applicator kits of foam and gel.·$4–$8 for refills.Similar prices for films and suppositories.Some health centers charge according to income. Check with your local family planning clinic for information.Advantages for teens —Many teen women have vaginal intercourse only now and then. Many of them prefer to use over-the-counter methods on those occasions. That way they avoid the possible, ongoing side effects of prescription methods.Caution — Using the spermicide nonoxynol-9 many times a day, by people at risk for HIV, or for anal sex, may irritate tissue and increase the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.FOUR METHODS NOT USUALLY RECOMMENDED FOR TEENS...Sterilization —Sterilization —a surgical procedure to keep sperm from joining egg.Tubal sterilization is intended to permanently block a woman's tubes where sperm join egg. Vasectomy is intended to permanently block a man's tubes that carry sperm.Effectiveness — 99.5–99.9%. Not effective against sexually transmitted infections.Reason not recommended for teens — This method is intended to be permanent. It is not appropriate for anyone who may want to have a child in the future. Because people so often change their minds about having families, sterilization is usually discouraged for people under 30 who have not had children.Withdrawal —the man pulls his penis out of the vagina before he ejaculates (comes) to keep sperm from joining egg.Effectiveness — 73–96%. Not effective against sexually transmitted infections.Reasons not usually recommended for teens —·Many young men lack the experience and self-control to pull out in time.·Some men have been known to say they will pull out, and then they get so excited and carried away that they don't.·Some men cannot tell when they are going to ejaculate.·Some men ejaculate very quickly, before they realize it.·Before ejaculation, almost all penises leak fluid — pre-ejaculate — that may contain sperm and cause pregnancy.The IUD (Intrauterine Device) —a small plastic device inserted into the uterus. The IUD contains copper or hormones that·keep sperm from joining egg·prevent fertilized egg from implanting in uterus·alter the lining of the uterus, which, in theory, may prevent implantation of a fertilized eggEffectiveness — 99.2–99.9%. Not effective against sexually transmitted infections.Reasons not usually recommended for teens —·Unless she has had a child, a young woman's uterus may be unable to hold an IUD.Fertility Awareness-Based Methods (FAMs)A professional teaches a woman how to keep track of her menstrual cycle to help her predict her "safe" and "unsafe" days. She must abstain from intercourse (periodic abstinence) or use condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, shields, or spermicide during the nine or more "unsafe" days of her cycle.The signs that are tracked include·daily basal body temperature·daily texture of cervical mucus·occurrence of menstrual cyclesEffectiveness — 75–99%. Not effective against sexually transmitted infections.Reasons not usually recommended for teens·These methods work best for women with very regular periods — teen women often have irregular periods.·Their partners may not wish to cooperate in using this method.·A teen's relationship may not be stable or committed enough to develop the trust and cooperation necessary for effective use of this method.·It takes 6–12 months of training and record keeping before a couple can use some of these methods. Teens may not be that patient.Emergency ContraceptionYou May WantEmergency Contraception if......you forgot to take your pills. He didn't pull out in time. You weren't using any birth control. He forced you to have unprotected sex. His condom slipped off.Emergency Contraception (EC) ...... is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected vaginal intercourse.... is provided in two ways:·Emergency IUD insertion within five days of unprotected intercourse is 99.9% effective.·Emergency contraception pills — can reduce the risk of pregnancy if started within 120 hours of unprotected sex. They work best when taken within 72 hours — during this time they can reduce the risk of pregnancy from 75 to 89%. The sooner a woman starts EC, the more effective it may be. Nausea, vomiting, and cramping are common side effects when combined hormones — estrogen and progestin — are used. But progestin-only pills cause fewer of these side effects.... is for use only if a woman is sure she is not already pregnant from a previous act of intercourse. It delays release of egg or keeps sperm from joining with egg. It will not cause an abortion.Don't use emergency hormonal contraception if you·are pregnant·are allergic to the medicationConsult your clinician about what kind of emergency contraception pills may be best for you.CostNationwide, the medication costs between $8 and $35. The cost of a visit, tests, and an exam, if needed, ranges between $35 and $170. Medicaid covers costs in some cases. Costs vary from community to community, based on regional and local expenses. Contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center 1-800-230-PLAN for information about costs in your area. Updated April 2005Written by Jon KnowlesRevised by Jennifer Johnsen© 2004 Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. All rights reserved. For medical questions, or to schedule an appointment with the nearest Planned Parenthood health center, call toll-free 1-800-230-PLANor 1-800-230-7526.Planned Parenthood affiliate health centers provide culturally competent, high-quality, affordable health care to millions of diverse women, men, and teens every year. Planned Parenthood welcomes everyone — regardless of race, age, disability, sexual orientation, or income.
Talking to Your Parents About Birth Control
by Logan R. Levkoff, 03.13.02
Many of you may be feeling anxious about some of the decisions that you face about having sex — including avoiding sexually transmitted infection and unintended pregnancy. Believe it or not, some of your parents are feeling just as anxious about the decisions you will make about sex! Some of them may be so anxious that they haven't tried to talk with you about it.
If you want to involve your parents in your decisions about protecting yourself when it comes to having sex, you can be the one to initiate the conversation.
"What's the point?" you may ask. Good question! Here are some possible benefits:
* You may get good advice and counseling about how to make decisions that will be best for you.
* You may increase the trust your parents have for you.
* Sharing this kind of information with them may show you are ready to be making responsible decisions about sex.
* You may get your parents' help finding information about birth control, safer sex, or in finding a clinician, nurse practitioner, or gynecologist.
But before you psych yourself up to talk to one or both of your parents about birth control, think about how they may react. If you think they might freak out, you may want to wait to have this discussion until you're all ready for it. In this case, you could turn to another trusted adult — maybe someone at your school or someone from a local family planning clinic. Talking to an adult you trust can give you the opportunity to rehearse what you want to say to your parents.
You should know that most parents want their children to grow up to have healthy sex lives. And healthy sexuality involves being responsible. Parents want their teens to make good decisions. And they want their children to be protected emotionally and physically. If you think mom or dad can handle a discussion about you having sex, there are some things you can say and do that may help the conversation go more smoothly.
Talking Tips:
1. Getting started: Give your parents a heads-up by scheduling your talk in advance. Just say something like "Can we have a private talk tonight?" If you're nervous, it's okay to say so! Break the ice with something like, "This feels weird for me to talk about, and it may be for you, too, but I want to tell you ..."
If you don't know where to start, use a book or a magazine you've read, or a show you've watched, as a jumping-off point. And say something like, "I read about someone who had sex when she was 15 years old. What do you think about that?"
2. How do you want them to be involved? Often parents want to feel needed and involved in their children's lives. Make sure to tell them what role you want them to play in your decision-making.
* You may want their valuable advice about whether or not you are ready to have a sexual relationship.
* You may want them to know about the choices you are making about safer sex and birth control.
* You may want them to give you suggestions about ways to protect yourself from infection and/or give you information about birth control.
* You may want one or both of your parents to go with you to a family planning clinic or a gynecologist when you're ready to start using a method of birth control or for a check up if you've already started having sex.
3. Confront the situation: You might say something like, "I'm starting to make important decisions about sex, and I want to talk to you about how to protect myself from sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy."
4. Use your sexuality education: Parents want to make sure that you're informed about the risks involved in having sex. Educate yourself and tell them what you know about pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, and how you intend to protect yourself. This may help your parents feel better about your decision.
Sexuality is a natural and normal part of life. And so is sex. Having sex is a big decision. It involves many feelings and responsibilities. Remember that even if you follow all of these tips, your parents may not agree with your decision. Be sure to consider that possibility and its possible outcomes before you try to have the conversation.
But since most parents say that they will welcome the opportunity to talk with their kids about sexuality, most of us are not disappointed when we decide to start that conversation ourselves.
Source(s):
http://www.teenwire.com/infocus/2002/if-...
http://www.clearblueeasy.com/am_i_pregna...
About Pregnancy Tests
How accurate are Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests?
Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests are over 99% accurate when used on or after the day of your expected period.
I had sex without protection. When should I test?
We recommend testing at least 19 days after unprotected sex, or from the day you expect your period.
I am taking the contraceptive pill. When should I test?
If you are taking the contraceptive pill you may be unsure when to test because the bleeding you experience while taking the contraceptive pill is a "withdrawal" bleed and not a real period. Test at least 19 days since the last time you had sex. If the test is 'Not Pregnant', and you still think you might be pregnant, wait at least 3 days and then do another Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test.
I have recently stopped taking the contraceptive pill. When should I test?
If you have recently stopped taking the contraceptive pill, your periods may be irregular, leading you to test too soon. If you have no idea when your period is due we recommend testing at least 19 days from the last time you had unprotected sex. If the result is 'Not Pregnant' and you still think that you are pregnant, wait at least 3 days and then do a second Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test.
I am using an injectable/implant contraceptive or an IUD and think I might be pregnant. When should I test?
Missing and irregular periods are common with these types of contraceptives, so it is difficult to know when to take a Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy test. We recommend testing from the day you expect your next period or at least 19 days after you had unprotected sex. If you are testing earlier than the day of your expected period, you should use the first urine of the day. Please read about the different Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests for more information.
I am taking clomiphene citrate. When should I test?
If you are using female fertility therapies like clomiphene citrate, your cycle length may have changed, leading you to test too soon. We recommend testing at least 19 days since you last had unprotected sex. If the result is 'Not Pregnant' and you still think you might be pregnant, wait at least 3 days before doing another Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test.
I have recently had a miscarriage or termination and I think I might be pregnant again. When should I test?
After a miscarriage or termination, hCG may take up to 9 weeks to return to normal levels. If you test during this time, it is impossible to know if a 'Pregnant' result is caused by a new pregnancy or by hCG from your previous pregnancy. In this case, we would recommend that you contact your doctor. If it is more than 9 weeks since your miscarriage or termination, it may be difficult to calculate when to test because your cycle may be irregular. If you have no idea when your period is due, test at least 19 days from the last time you had unprotected sex. If the result is 'Not Pregnant' and you still think you are pregnant, test again in 3 days using a second Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test.
What Factors Could Affect My Pregnancy Test Results?
I am taking the contraceptive pill. Will this affect my result?
No. However, if you are taking the contraceptive pill you may be unsure when to test because the bleeding you have every month when taking the contraceptive pill is a 'withdrawal' bleed and not a real period. You should test at least 19 days after the last time you had unprotected sex. If the test is 'Not Pregnant', and you still think you are pregnant, wait at least 3 days before another Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test.
Could antibiotics affect my result?
As far as we are aware, they should not. However, if you are taking any medication, please read the instructions before taking a Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test, or discuss it with your doctor.
Can drinking too much affect my result?
Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests detect tiny amounts of hCG in your urine. However, if you drink too much fluid before you do any Clearblue® Pregnancy Test it can dilute your level of pregnancy hormone and it could lead to a false 'Not Pregnant' result. Although you might be pregnant, the hCG might be so diluted that Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test isn't able to detect it. So, try not to drink too much before you take a test and wait until you naturally need to pass urine.
Does alcohol affect my result?
No. But drinking lots of fluid can affect the concentration of hCG in the urine sample. So, try not to drink too much before you take a Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test and wait until you naturally need to pass urine.
Can any medication or medical conditions affect the result?
Always read the instructions for any medication you are taking before conducting the test.
·Fertility drugs containing hCG can give misleading results (these fertility drugs are usually given by injection and testing too soon after administration may give a 'false' pregnant result).
·Other fertility therapies (such as clomiphene citrate), painkillers and hormonal contraceptives (e.g. contraceptive pill) should not affect the result.
·If you have recently stopped using hormonal contraception or are using fertility therapies like clomiphene citrate, your periods may be irregular, leading you to test too soon.
·If you have recently been pregnant (even if not carried to full term) you may get a false 'Pregnant" result.
·Ectopic pregnancy, ovarian cysts, menopause and some very rare medical conditions can give misleading results.
·If you do get unexpected results you should discuss them with your doctor.
I am taking clomiphene citrate, will this affect my result?
No, fertility therapies like clomiphene citrate will not affect the test. However, clomiphene citrate can alter your normal cycle length and lead you to test too soon. You should test at least 19 days after you last had unprotected sex. If the result is 'Not Pregnant' and your period does not begin, take another Clearblue® Pregnancy Test, allowing at least 3 days between tests.
Will other fertility drugs interfere with my result?
Only those containing the pregnancy hormone hCG affect the test result. These drugs are usually given by injection and testing too soon after the injection may give a 'false' pregnant result. You should test no sooner than 14 days from the last injection, unless your doctor or hospital has advised you otherwise.
More Facts About Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests
How much do Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests cost?
Clearblue® Easy Tests range in price from $10 - $19 depending on how many tests come in the package.
Where can I buy a Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Test?
Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests are sold nationally in all major drug stores and food stores. They are also available for purchase on many store's websites. Click here to purchase a Clearblue® Easy product on-line. For a complete list of stores where Clearblue® Easy pregnancy tests are sold click here.
Where can I find the expiration date of a Clearblue® Pregnancy Test?
The expiration date is printed on the side of the carton just below the lot number.
How should Clearblue® Easy Pregnancy Tests be stored?
Clearblue® Pregnancy Tests should be stored at room temperature, 36°-86° F (2°-30°C). As long as the Test Stick is kept in the unopened foil pouch, it will keep until the expiration date shown on the carton.