Experiencing symptoms like a missed period or nausea can be stressful for some women. Multiple questions might have come to mind about what you would do next if your suspicions about a possible pregnancy were correct. Maybe you took a test to be sure, and it came back negative. But now you’re wondering how to avoid finding yourself in this situation again. The emotions that you felt when you thought you might have been pregnant may have served as a source of motivation to make a change. You don’t want to be in that situation again but aren’t sure what prevention method is right for you. There are a lot of options and it’s helpful to take time to learn about each. Start the process today of preventing future pregnancy scares.
If you are concerned about a pregnancy scare, Avenue Women’s Center is a great next step. We have been assisting women facing unexpected pregnancy (or pregnancy scares!) since 1981. Receive a free, medical-grade pregnancy test, accurate just ten days after possible conception. Our client advocates can discuss your results with you right away, addressing your questions about pregnancy prevention and the next steps.
Contact us today to schedule your free, private consultation appointment!
What Are My Options?
There’s more than one pregnancy prevention method out there. So, you may want to ask yourself specific questions when trying to find the kind that is right for you. Professional resources, such as a healthcare provider or a pregnancy consultant, can often supply you with further information. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks behind each of your choices can help you assess the effectiveness of each method.
Birth Control Pills:
If you’re not currently taking birth control or the type you have been using led to your recent scare, it can be important to ensure you understand how it works. Women who take a pill may need to remember to take it every day, and at the same time. You may need to ask yourself if you’re confident that you will not forget to do this. And it can be a good idea to talk with your doctor to see if you have any underlying health conditions that may reduce the pill’s effectiveness. It should be noted that birth control pills generally cannot offer you protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This means you may want to think about combining the pill with another contraceptive or consider your other options if that is a concern for you.
Barrier Methods:
Condoms can not only reduce the risk of pregnancy but also safeguard against STDs. For the highest level of effectiveness, there are a few considerations. Make sure the condom used is the correct size. Check that it is not worn or damaged, and it is not past its expiration date. If you or your partner are not comfortable with condoms, other barrier methods some women use are the sponge or a diaphragm. While there is a benefit to these methods, as they typically do not alter your hormone levels, like the pill, they usually cannot guard you against STDs.
Fertility Awareness:
Sometimes referred to as Natural Family Planning (NFP), this form of birth control does not require the use of drugs or devices. By becoming familiar with your body’s natural cycles, you can begin charting your fertility patterns to see when you might be ovulating. Some women may estimate their fertile times by using a calendar. Others may record their basal body temperature to note any changes in their bodily heat that may be tied to their fertility window. You may need to be diligent about tracking your fertility periods and abstaining from sex or using a barrier method of birth control when you’re within your window. Remembering to do this can lead to higher success rates and avoid pregnancy scares.
Abstinence:
This is the only method that comes with a 100% success rate. It can also offer you complete protection against STDs. Though this type of birth control typically comes with the least amount of side effects, it can be hard for some women to commit to it. If you’re thinking about abstaining from sexual activity, then you may want to have a discussion with your partner. This way, you can clearly communicate your needs and expectations to him. If challenges present themselves, then perhaps you can speak with a professional resource who can help you remain consistent if abstaining from intercourse is something you’re sure you want to do.
It’s understandable that you might have been caught off guard by a pregnancy scare. Your feelings are completely valid. And you deserve the opportunity to consider how you may want to proceed in the future. There are many different options available to you, and in order to find the best one, you may want to think about who you can reach out to for guidance.
Are you worried about how you can reduce your chances of getting pregnant? Avenue Women’s Center understands the complex emotions and frustrations that may emerge if your preferred form of contraception fails. At each of DuPage County centers, we can help you receive answers about your unexpected pregnancy suspicions, and supply you with reliable information about your options. Our expert staff will address your unique concerns and questions.
Reach out today for limited medical services and support at no cost!
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Reference:
- American Pregnancy Association. (2019, December 2). Birth Control Failure. Retrieved from: https://americanpregnancy.org/preventing-pregnancy/birth-control-failure/
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.