You should be worried the first time you have sexual contact if you don’t use protection. Not only should you be worried about getting pregnant, if your partner wasn’t also a virgin, you also could have contracted a sexually transmitted disease or infection (STD/STI).
Here’s how it works: When a penis comes in contact with a vagina, the fluids present (semen, and vaginal secretions) work together to help transport sperm to an awaiting egg. It’s hard to tell when you have an egg waiting to be fertilized, so there really is no safe time to engage in sexual activity.
If you are in a relationship that appears to be becoming more sexual, get an appointment with a doctor to discuss birth control and options to help protect from unwanted pregnancy and STD/SDIs. Birth control pills can protect from getting pregnant, but will not prevent transmitting STD/STIs, so using a condom every time is also recommended. Condoms also can provide back up protection if you are just starting the pill, forget to take the pill, or are super concerned about getting pregnant.
Do you have a question about Sex and Relationships, pregnancy, and STD/STIs? Check out EmpowHER’s pages. Sign-up, post a question, share your story, connect with other women in our groups and community, and feel EmpowHERed!
Resource:
Young Women’s Health: Pregnancy Facts
EmpowHER: Am I Ready to Have Sex? 10 Things That Need to be True
EmpowHER: Answers for Women: Am I Pregnant After Unprotected Sex?
Christine Jeffries is a writer/editor for work and at heart, and lives in a home of testosterone with her husband and two sons. Christine is interested in women’s health and promoting strong women.