There’s a lot of misinformation about pregnancy prevention out there. Maybe it’s because we often hear only from friends, too shy or embarrassed to turn to more reliable sources for information about this sensitive topic. Depending on flawed advice, however, puts you at much greater risk for an unplanned pregnancy.
Here’s the truth about four common conception myths…
Myth 1: You Can’t Get Pregnant the First Time You Have Sex
This is one of the most common myths about pregnancy prevention, and it’s 100% false. Sadly, this rumor leads many very young girls and women to an increased risk of pregnancy from the their first sexual encounter. To be perfectly clear – yes, you can absolutely get pregnant the first time you have sex.
Myth 2: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period
Sperm can actually live inside a woman’s body for up to five days. So, if the sexual encounter takes place near the end of your period, and you have a shorter than average cycle, it’s possible to get pregnant. This is not a common occurrence, but you certainly should not rely on this timing for birth control.
Myth 3: Only Having Sex in Certain Positions Prevents Pregnancy
Any form of vaginal intercourse can result in pregnancy. There is no positioning of either partner’s body – before, during or after intercourse – that will prevent pregnancy. In fact, in some cases, you can even get pregnant without penetration.
Myth 4: You Can’t Get Pregnant if You Use Birth Control
No birth control other than abstinence is 100% effective. Even if you do everything as directed, there’s still a chance you could get pregnant. A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study showed 9% of women using birth control pills got pregnant within a year, and 18% of women using condoms got pregnant.
At Sira in Gainesville, we offer free medical pregnancy tests to any woman, no health insurance required. Contact us today at 352-377-4947 to schedule a time convenient for you.