Dealing with Pregnancy Scares
As human beings we’re far from perfect. Whether it's forgetting protection or skipping your birth control pill, shit happens. Although these are things we’re not too proud about, it’s time to address and explore the options that are available when Mother Nature doesn’t come a knockin’ when she's supposed to. Here are some things to consider when you're faced with the dreaded pregnancy scare to hopefully, well, make it a little less scary.
The night of
Sometimes in the heat of the moment, things escalate quickly. Our ability to think clearly is compromised by our horny little minds and a rush of hormones. One thing leads to another and boom — you’ve just had unprotected sex. Even though he says he “pulled out,” do you really believe it? Regardless of if he did or not, there is such thing as pre-cum. There are two options as for what to do after a night of protection mishaps. Your first is to put it in the back of your mind and wait it out. It’s risky, but if procrastination has done you well in the past, go for it. The second is resorting to an emergency contraception, such as the Plan B pill. Whichever option you choose, make sure to do your research and ultimately go through with the one you’re most comfortable with.
Skipping a pill
The only pills you should be skipping, if any, are your sugar pills. If you do happen to forget one of your BC pills, you have options. You can take this handy quiz on Planned Parenthood, or call a local clinic or health service provider for suggestions. Depending on who you are and other medication you take, it's important to consult before doubling up or skipping. That being said, BC pills are a form of contraception you should only prescribe to if you know you can commit to taking them every day at the same time. If this doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, there are many other forms of conception to consider such as an IUD, the shot, or cervical caps.
The missed period
Unprotected sex, skipped a pill, and now your period is over a week late? If you’re always regular and your anxiety is in overdrive, it may be time to take a test. Before you panic, though, a missed period doesn’t always point to pregnancy. Human bodies are super complicated, especially women’s reproductive systems. Things just might not work one month like they’re supposed to. Regardless of what may or may not be occurring inside your lady parts, it’s not a bad idea to take a test after a missed period and determine if pregnancy is in or out of the picture. You can schedule an appointment for a free test at Health Services at any time.
To Conclude
Your sex life is truly what you make it. Safe sex, unprotected sex, contraception, or no contraception, it’s your body and no one else can choose what is best for you. Pregnancy scares happen all the time to women of all ages. Just remember that there are always options, resources, and support just around the corner. To learn more about your sex life and contraception options, visit: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/.