Mythical Methods of Birth Control

What methods should NOT be used as birth control?

Have you heard that if you have intercourse during your menstrual period, you won't get pregnant? This is not true. If you have a long menstrual period and a short cycle, you can still be ovulating at the end of your menstrual period. Some women have a small amount of bleeding during ovulation and may mistake it for a menstrual period. This means that you can still get pregnant during your period.

Have you ever heard that if you stand up immediately after having sex, you won't get pregnant?

This is definitely not true! Standing, sitting, lying down—no physical position can prevent pregnancy.

Or, have you heard that the first time you have sex, you can't get pregnant?

Not true! No matter when or how many times you have sex, you still run the risk of getting pregnant.

Written by the Center for Young Women's Health Staff

Updated: 10/16/2009

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