Looks like things got a little intense, and now you’re dealing with the possibility of an unexpected pregnancy.

Don’t worry—everyone makes impulsive decisions sometimes.

The important thing is knowing that there are options to help avoid any surprises.

While these methods can be effective, it's essential to remember that there’s no foolproof solution.

So, to be on the safe side, it’s always best to visit a gynaecologist who can guide you toward the most reliable way to prevent pregnancy moving forward.

Tips to avoid pregnancy after unprotected sex

If you’ve had unprotected sex or the condom didn’t do its job, it’s totally understandable to feel anxious, especially if this wasn’t part of your plan. But don’t panic—there are a few things you can do to help lower the risk of pregnancy after it happens.

First and foremost, take a deep breath and remember you are not alone in the boat. Unprotected sex and condom breakage are relatively common; more than one could imagine. So, here's the deal:

Use the Bathroom

Make a pit stop in the bathroom and clear out any residual fluids. It's not just about comfort; it's about reducing the risk of pesky urinary tract infections (UTIs). But keep in mind that, peeing won't magically undo the pregnancy risk – those little swimmers are fast!

Use emergency contraception

Taking emergency contraceptive tablets is one of the simplest ways to prevent pregnancy.

For birth control, several popular emergency contraceptive methods are available, such as the 24 hour tablet, 3 day pill, or 5 day pill. The pills have to be taken within a certain time frame for them to work.

The medication has higher benefits the earlier you take it. These are easily accessible at drug or medical stores. There is also a tablet that lasts for one month, but you can only take it with a doctor's prescription since they are dangerous.

Wash Up

Resist the urge to go all out with a deep cleanse. Genital areas don't need a post-coital spa day. A simple shower or a splash of lukewarm water will do the trick. Douching can lead to irritation and inflammation – not the kind of fireworks you're after.

Grab a Plan B

For the pregnancy paranoia, there's Plan B and other levonorgestrel EC pills available over the counter. Pop one within 72 hours of your encounter, and you're golden. Taking it within 24 hours slashes your pregnancy risk by 95%, but it's still 88% effective within 24 to 72 hours.

Plan B's negative impacts include

• Irregular menstrual cycle

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Stomach Ache

• Fatigue

• Tender breasts

If you vomit within two hours of taking Plan B, you will need to take another tablet to guarantee its efficacy.

Preventing Pregnancy Naturally

We've talked about emergency contraceptives, but it's important to know they come with risks. Taking those pills can be tricky for women.

So, if you are thinking about how to prevent pregnancy naturally, here are some home remedies one can go for trying. They may not always work, but they definitely would be worth a try.

Again, for a precautionary measure, one should get in touch with a gynaecologist nearby for an expert opinion as to which one is going to be most effective. Here are some ways to prevent pregnancy naturally after unprotected sex:

1. Neem Leaves or Neem Extract

Neem is like a superhero against pregnancy. It doesn't just block the sperm; it annihilates them. You can have neem in your tea, neem tree oil, or any neem extract.

2. Spearmint Tea

Spearmint is another ally in the battle against pregnancy. Toss it in your tea, but be careful not to overdo it; too much can be harmful. For safe spearmint consumption, chat with your doctor.

3. Vitamin C Supplements

Vitamin C can be your natural ally in preventing pregnancy. Two 500 mg supplements can work if taken within three days of unprotected sex.

4. Dried Apricots

Mix dried apricots with honey and water to make a drink. Have a glass to reduce your chances of getting pregnant.

5. Parsley Leaves

Parsley leaves are like your natural shield against pregnancy. Use them however you like; they've proven themselves as a birth control method.

6. Papaya

After unprotected sex, eat papaya continuously for 3-4 days. It stops fertilisation and acts as a natural pregnancy preventer.

7. Pineapple

Pineapple has properties that prevent the baby from attaching. Eating ripe pineapple for 2-3 days after unprotected sex can help avoid pregnancy.

8. Ginger Tea

Boil grated ginger in water, strain it, and drink it daily. Ginger can help induce your periods naturally.

9. Dried Figs

Have 3-4 dried figs for 3-4 days after unprotected sex. They are one of the best natural birth control methods.

10. Cinnamon

Cinnamon can be consumed after unprotected sex and might even lead to a miscarriage or abortion.

Remember, these methods may not be perfect, but they offer a natural approach to avoiding pregnancy. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the best guidance. Your well-being is important, and they can help you choose the right path.

Look for Symptoms

If you're starting to wonder whether there is a new guest at your door, the first sign is usually a missed period. Take a pregnancy test around the 3-week mark to confirm. Patience is key here because it takes time for the hormone (hCG) that pregnancy tests detect to build up in your body.

Get Tested

As for genital herpes and HIV, testing isn't a cure-all. Genital herpes can pop up as blisters or an itchy sensation, while HIV might feel like a flu at first. Both require waiting about 3 weeks to test for accurate results.

Just to be on the safe side, consider retesting for STIs around the 3-month mark. This gives you confidence that any negative results you received are legit, and any treatment you received has done its job. When it comes to syphilis, retesting at 3 and 6 months is a wise move.

For Next Time

Here are some simple steps you can take to feel more prepared and protected next time.

1. Barrier Methods

Use barriers like condoms, both external and internal, and dental dams for oral sex. Make sure they're not expired or damaged. And don't forget the lube—it makes things smoother and safer.

2. Taking birth control pills

If you’re more of a planner and prefer to stay prepared, birth control pills could be your go-to. Just remember, they won’t protect you from STIs, so it’s always a good idea to use condoms too for that added peace of mind.

All of the existing contraceptive tablets are quite efficient at preventing pregnancy. There are primarily two types of tablets that are utilised, and both cause hormonal changes in the body that end in an unsuccessful pregnancy.

They must be consumed everyday without a pause in the manner prescribed by the instructions. One tablet included both oestrogen and progestin, whilst the other contained simply progestin. The upcoming time period represents another distinction. While the latter won't

3. Pull Out Method

Pulling out is removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation. You can become pregnant if semen (cum) enters your vagina. Therefore, it is preventative to ejaculate away from a vulva or vagina. But for it to work, you have to be sure to pull out every time you have vaginal intercourse before any semen comes out.

4. IUDs

Well, if remembering things is not exactly your forte (be it birthdays or the last place you kept your car keys), perhaps contraceptives like the intrauterine device (IUD) would be ideal for you. These little T-shaped devices are placed inside the uterus by a health care provider and one can wear them for a number of years depending on the type. Imagine it as a contraception approach that requires little or no attention after the initial insertion. There is no no need for pills or condoms.

5. Get Crafty with DIY Barriers

I’m not saying you need to go overboard with protection, but you can get creative if needed. Condoms are always a solid choice, but if you're in a bind, you can improvise with a latex glove or even cut a non-lubricated condom in half to make a quick barrier. Just remember to secure it properly and, you know, leave room for the important bits.

6. Be Prepared for Plan Z

Sometimes, despite all your best efforts, accidents happen. That's when you should have Plan Z up your sleeve - the Z stands for "Zygote," in case you're wondering. Be aware of your options if you find yourself in this situation. Adoption, co-parenting, or single parenthood are all paths you can consider.