Ever wonder if the information you have been given about sex is accurate? We know that there are many different opinions in society today that tell us what sex is and how it should be viewed. It is our hope that we can give you more information regarding the opinions you often here so that you can make the most informed choice. Below is a list of common misconceptions we here at the Pregnancy Resource Center.
The FIRST misconception:“I can’t get pregnant if I’m breastfeeding.”
Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation in some women. Most women do not have a period during the postpartum stage if they are breastfeeding full time. This does not provide 100% protection against pregnancy because some women can still ovulate (when your body releases an egg for fertilization and conception) without having a period.
The SECOND misconception: “By having sex in a certain position you can prevent pregnancy.”
It doesn’t matter what position you have sex in, sperm can swim in multiple directions including upwards. If you are having sex, there is a chance of becoming pregnant and or contracting an STD/STI.
The THIRD misconception: “You can’t get pregnant your first time having sex.”
If you are having unprotected sex you can still get pregnant even if it’s your first time. Even if you are protected by a contraceptive none of them are 100%. Each provides a failure rate depending on how they are used, manufactured, and the person’s overall health that is taking them. It’s also important to note that contraception does not prevent STD’s/STI’s.
The FOURTH misconception: “You can’t get pregnant when you are on your period.”
If a woman has reached the stage in life where ovulation begins (which occurs monthly in most women) there is always a chance for pregnancy. Even if you are on your period if you are not using protection there is a chance for unintended pregnancy and or an STD/STI.
The FIFTH misconception: “I took my birth control and or we used condoms. I thought I was safe.”
As stated previously, contraceptives are not 100% effective so there is always a chance for unintended pregnancy. Abstinence is the only 100% way to protect yourself. If you are unsure of the risks you face with your contraceptive you should speak with your doctor or make a FREE appointment at our center to speak with our nurse about how to protect your health.
**As you can see there are a lot of things that you might have heard about sex that may not be true after all. It is important to take ownership of this part of your life and the choices you make. If you would like more information about the things that we have shared here today, call our center at 760-945-4673 or check out our appointment tab on Pregnancy Resource Centers website for a FREE and CONFIDENTIAL consult with a trained counselor.