What should I do if I don’t want to get pregnant after having sex?

If you don’t want to get pregnant after having sex, you can use emergency contraception, short-acting contraceptive pills, condoms, intrauterine devices, fallopian tube ligation and other methods to prevent pregnancy. Unintended pregnancy is usually caused by contraceptive failure, unprotected sex, miscalculation of ovulation, improper use of contraceptive methods, drug interactions, etc.

1. Emergency contraception

Taking emergency contraceptive pills such as levonorgestrel tablets and mifepristone tablets within 72 hours after intercourse can reduce the probability of pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills work by inhibiting ovulation or interfering with the implantation of a fertilized egg. It should be noted that the earlier the medication is taken, the better the effect. Common adverse reactions include nausea and menstrual disorders, and it should not be used more than three times in a year.

2. Short-acting contraceptive pills

Short-acting contraceptive pills such as drospirenone ethinylestradiol tablets and desogestrel ethinylestradiol tablets need to be taken regularly every day to achieve contraception by inhibiting ovulation. It is suitable for women who have a regular sexual life and has a high contraceptive success rate. However, please note that it may cause side effects such as breast swelling and pain, mood swings, and is prohibited for smokers.

3. Condoms

Male polyurethane condoms or female silicone condoms can physically block the combination of sperm and egg, and have a higher contraceptive success rate when used correctly. It can also prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Please check the validity period and damage before use. Use water-based lubricant to reduce the risk of breakage.

4. Intrauterine device

A copper-containing intrauterine device or levonorgestrel sustained-release intrauterine system needs to be implanted into the uterine cavity by a doctor to achieve long-term contraception by interfering with sperm activity or inhibiting endometrial growth. The effect lasts for 3-10 years and may cause discomfort such as increased menstrual flow and backache. It is suitable for women who have completed their childbearing plans.

5. Fallopian tube ligation

Laparoscopic fallopian tube ligation is a permanent contraceptive method that blocks the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm and eggs from meeting each other. The surgery is less invasive but irreversible and is suitable for couples who have no desire to have children. Care should be taken to avoid strenuous exercise and wound infection after surgery.

It is recommended to choose the appropriate contraceptive method according to your own situation. Emergency contraceptive pills cannot be used as a regular method of contraception. Have regular gynecological examinations to understand the applicable conditions and precautions for different contraceptive methods. Maintaining a single sexual partner can reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. If you experience delayed menstruation, you need to take a pregnancy test promptly. Daily methods such as recording menstrual cycles and observing changes in cervical mucus can help determine the safe period. However, the contraceptive failure rate is high during the safe period, so it is recommended to combine it with other contraceptive measures.