09 Jan 5 Misconceptions About Conception
When people come to our center for free pregnancy testing and other services, they often share with us stories of how they thought they couldn’t become pregnant or why they thought they were safe. Many people share these misconceptions, which is why we wanted to look at some of the more common myths about unintended pregnancy and sex, and share the truth for everyone to see.
Myth #1: I Can’t Get Pregnant When I’m On My Period
This is one of the most common misconceptions about sex we hear. Many women think that they cannot become pregnant during their menstrual periods. In truth, it is possible for women to become pregnant during menstruation. The probability is low, but the possibility exists. Also, STDs or STIs (sexually transmitted diseases or infections) can be passed between partners any day of the month — even during menstruation.
Myth #2: Certain Positions Prevent Pregnancy
Some people believe that by having sex in a certain position it’s impossible to get pregnant. A related myth is that you can prevent pregnancy by positioning yourself a certain way after intercourse. Both of these ideas are false, though. Sperm can travel into your uterus and fertilize an egg no matter what position you are in.
Myth #3: You Can’t Get Pregnant the First Time You Have Sex
Many young women believe that if they are virgins before having sex, they cannot get pregnant. This is a myth, however. The truth is that you can get pregnant even if you’ve never had sex before.
Myth #4: Condoms and Birth Control Prevent All Pregnancies
While condoms and prescription birth control can help prevent pregnancy, no birth control method is 100% effective. Pregnancies can happen even when you use birth control correctly. All forms of birth control include information about their failure rates – in other words, the percentage of times they weren’t effective. You should also note that prescription birth control methods don’t provide any protection against STDs or STIs. The only way to keep yourself completely safe is not to have sex.
Myth #5: The Morning After Pill is Safe and Simple
The morning after pill is marketed as a safe way to prevent pregnancy if you have had unprotected sex or if your birth control fails. However, these medications can have serious and even dangerous side effects. If you are considering using the morning after pill to prevent pregnancy, you should know about the risks of doing so.
In truth, the only way to prevent pregnancy and STDs 100% of the time is to abstain from having sex. This can be difficult, but it’s the best decision in order to keep yourself safe.
To learn more about pregnancy, sex, and relationships, contact us today at Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center. Our caring staff will help you and take the time to listen to your concerns. All help is confidential and free. Call us today at (973) 238-9045 or fill out our online form to request an appointment at one of our three convenient locations.