What is the best way to avoid getting pregnant or getting someone pregnant?

The best way to avoid a pregnancy is to not have sex (abstinence). This is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. If you decide to have sex or are already having sex and don’t want to get pregnant, it’s important to use birth control. Birth control works very well in preventing pregnancies.

Can I get pregnant the first time I have sex?

Yes. You can get pregnant the first time you have sex. It doesn’t matter how many times you have sex, there is always a chance of getting pregnant.

Is a condom a birth control method?

Yes, condoms work great at preventing pregnancy. Condoms are also the only birth control method that will prevent STDs. Some people always use condoms for birth control, even when they are on another method. That way they are protected against STDs.

Should I use a condom even if I am using a birth control method like the IUD, Implant, or Pill?

It is a good idea to always use condoms. Using a condom will protect you from getting and/or spreading sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). A condom is the ONLY form of birth control that prevents STDs. STDs are passed from one person to another when having oral, vaginal, or anal sex.

Condoms prevent pregnancy and protect you and your partner from sexually transmitted infections.

Can I get a sexually transmitted disease (STD) when I am on the pill?

Yes. You can get an STD while taking the birth control pill. It does not protect against STDs.

Can I get an STD when using a condom?

Yes. Anytime you have sex, there is a chance you can get an STD. However, it is way less likely when you use condoms correctly every time you have sex. Latex condoms are highly effective in reducing the risk of getting an STD, including HIV. If you are allergic to latex, there are vinyl condoms.

Can I use two condoms, in case one breaks?

No. Using one condom is safer than using two condoms. This is because two condoms, one on top of the other, can cause the condoms to rub together and break. Practice the rule: one condom for each sex act performed.

Where can I get condoms?

Condoms are available at most grocery stores, drug stores, and some gas stations. Free condoms are always available at our clinics.

What is the morning-after pill (Plan B) and how does it work?

Plan B, also known as emergency contraception, is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when there is a problem with birth control, such as a broken condom. It can be taken up to 5 days after sex, but it is most effective within the first day. The sooner someone takes it the better.

This is not an abortion pill, so it will not work if you are already pregnant.

Can I get pregnant if I have sex while I have my period?

Yes. It is possible for you to get pregnant if you have sex while you have your menstrual period (bleeding).

Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries into the uterus and is the most fertile time for a female. Vaginal bleeding during ovulation is common and can be mistaken for a period. After ejaculation, sperm can survive for up to a week inside the vagina or uterus even if there is bleeding. If ovulation occurs while sperm is still alive, pregnancy can occur.

Can peeing after sex reduce your chance of getting an STD?

Urinating after sex is not effective way prevent acquiring HIV or a STD (sexually transmitted disease). While it may help reduce some bacterial infections, referred to as Urinary tract Infections (UTIs), especially in women, it is not proven or recommended to reduce the risk of STD infections.