Can You Get Pregnant While on Birth Control?

What is Birth Control?

Birth control, also known as contraception, is a form of contraception used to prevent pregnancy. Birth control methods may include hormonal contraception such as birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and contraceptive implants, as well as barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. Birth control can be used to prevent pregnancy, to regulate menstrual cycles, and to treat certain medical conditions.

How Effective is Birth Control?

Birth control is generally very effective when used correctly. The effectiveness of birth control depends on the type of method used, as well as on factors such as the user’s age, health, and lifestyle. For example, the birth control pill is most effective when taken at the same time every day, while condoms are most effective when used correctly and consistently with every act of sexual intercourse.

Is it Possible to Get Pregnant While on Birth Control?

While birth control is generally very effective, it is still possible to get pregnant while using birth control. The risk of pregnancy is highest when birth control is not used correctly, such as when birth control pills are not taken at the same time every day or when condoms are not used correctly with every act of sexual intercourse.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Pregnancy While on Birth Control?

To reduce your risk of pregnancy while on birth control, you should always use your method of birth control correctly and consistently. For example, if you are using the birth control pill, you should take it at the same time every day. If you are using condoms, you should use them correctly and consistently with every act of sexual intercourse. You should also use a backup method of birth control, such as a condom, if you miss a dose of birth control or if the method fails.

When Should I See My Doctor?

You should always talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your risk of pregnancy while on birth control. Your doctor can help you choose the birth control method that is best for you and can provide advice on how to use your method correctly and consistently. Your doctor can also help you determine if you need to use a backup method of birth control, such as a condom, if you miss a dose of birth control or if the method fails.

Conclusion

It is possible to get pregnant while on birth control, but the risk of pregnancy is greatly reduced when birth control is used correctly and consistently. If you are concerned about your risk of pregnancy while on birth control, you should talk to your doctor to discuss the best birth control method for you and how to use it correctly and consistently. Your doctor can also help you determine if you need to use a backup method of birth control, such as a condom, if you miss a dose of birth control or if the method fails.

Resources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Birth Control. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/contraception/index.html.

Planned Parenthood. (2021). How Effective is Birth Control? Retrieved from https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/how-effective-is-birth-control.