Tips To Avoid Pregnancy

• Condoms are considered to be safe; 98-99% over a year of 'perfect use'. So, if 100 couples use a condom for 5 years, one in 15 will get pregnant anyway. Out of 10 million couples using the condom THREE QUARTERS of a MILLION will still get pregnant. Gives another dimension to 99% safe doesn't it? Use the condom in combination with spermicidal jelly to be extra safe!
• Check expiration date and check to see that the package is intact before use on all contraception you use.
• Store condoms in a cool, dry place because condoms exposed to air, heat and light are more likely to break. Don't keep condoms in a billfold, back pocket or glove compartment for an extended period of time. This can cause condom deterioration and breakage as well.
• Proper usage can increase a condom's protection. Avoid sharp objects, fingernails and air bubbles. Be sure there is plenty of lubrication to avoid rupture of the condom.
• Alcohol and other drugs lower inhibitions, seriously affecting judgement and can lead to unsafe sex.
• If a condom breaks, immediate withdrawal is recommended. A new condom can then be used. To reduce the risk of pregnancy, a woman can immediately insert two applications of spermicide into the vagina.
• If you feel uncomfortable discussing sex and birth control with your partner, then you shouldn't be having sex! Be straightforward and talk about sex beforehand so both partners know what to expect
• Some birth control methods like the Pill take time to become effective, so it helps to decide beforehand if this is the contraception for you.
• If you will be using the pill or other forms of birth control, make sure to use them properly. Ask your doctor to thoroughly explain the correct way of using the birth control. Do not ever skip a dose or change without your doctor's advice. Doing so can actually increase your chances of becoming pregnant.
• Know your fertile days. There is usually a small time frame each month that a woman is most fertile. Avoid having unprotected sex during that time. This method is like others-not 100% reliable. You should always use protection if you do not intend to get pregnant.
• Above all else, if you seriously are not ready to take on the responsibility of raising a child you should reconsider having sex. There are plenty of other ways to show affection towards your partner than having sexual intercourse.
• NEVER rely on the "pull out" method or breastfeeding as a means of birth control.