How Not To Get Pregnant After Sex

Not ready for a baby?

Then make sure you know how to prevent pregnancy. The best way to prevent pregnancy is not to have sex. Choosing abstinence (meaning choosing not to have any kind of sex at all) not only protects you from pregnancy, but also from sexually transmitted infections (STI). If you do make the decision to become sexually active, make sure you know how to reduce your risk of getting an STI and prevent unplanned pregnancy.

Birth Control Options

While condoms help prevent both STIs and pregnancy, other forms of birth control (also called contraception) only help prevent pregnancy. While you may choose different forms of birth control, remember that condoms are the best form of protection against STIs as well.

There are many options available for preventing pregnancy, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you are sexually active and don't want to get pregnant, download our birth control method comparison chart to help you make the choice that's best for you. Remember: many options to prevent pregnancy do not protect you against STIs.

Know the Facts

Maybe you've heard some "facts" about pregnancy (and ways to avoid it). Like, a girl can't get pregnant the first time she has sex, or you can't get pregnant if you are on your period. These "facts" are not true.

Learn how to separate the myths from the facts.

A girl can get pregnant even if:

Plan B

If you've had sex and didn't use any type of birth control, or if the birth control you used failed, you have the option of emergency contraception up to three days afterward. Plan B-One Step prevents pregnancy for up to 72 hours (3 days) after having unprotected sex. It is not intended for regular use and does not protect you from STIs or HIV. You can't use it if you are already pregnant. If you are 15 or older, you can purchase Plan B-One Step over the counter at almost all drug stores. You will need to present a government issued photo ID (like a driver's license) as proof of your age.

There are many options available for preventing pregnancy, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you are sexually active and don't want to get pregnant, you can explore the range of contraceptive choices available. You can download our birth control method comparison chart and print out a copy to bring to your healthcare provider, so your provider can help you make the choice that's best for you.