Family Planning

Various myths and misperceptions about pregnancy persist even now – but the RIghtTime app is here to clear things up. Our app lets you find all information you need planning and preparing for a healthy pregnancy, plus vital information on the use and effectiveness of birth control. Need some information right away? Check out our FAQ below, then download our app today! Thinking about having a baby? Be Ready. Be Healthy.

What type of birth control should I use?

You should use the birth control method that best meets your needs. Consider factors like effectiveness, any birth control side effects, cost, and how easy it is to get — do you need a prescription or have to visit your doctor? You want to make sure that it’s easy to use. For instance, if you think you will have trouble remembering to take a birth control pill every day, it may not be the best option for you.

Can you get pregnant while on your period?

Yes, it is still possible to become pregnant while menstruating/having a period. If you have regular periods, you are less likely to get pregnant than at other times in your cycle – but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. Sperm can also remain alive inside the vagina for as long as 5 days after sex. Having sex while on one’s period is not a recommended method of pregnancy prevention.

Can I get pregnant the first time I have sex?

Yes! There is the potential to become pregnant every time you have vaginal sex. It’s even possible to become pregnant before ever having a period. Pregnancy can happen when ejaculate (sperm) or pre-ejaculate gets in the vagina or on the vulva. If I plan to have a baby, how soon after stopping the birth control can I conceive? Depending on the method, most women ovulate again about two weeks to three months after stopping their method. As soon as you ovulate again, you can get pregnant. If this happens during your first cycle off your method, you may not have a period at all. Check a pregnancy test if you’ve had unprotected sex and your period hasn’t returned. Talk to your healthcare provider before you stop using your birth control method and if you have questions about pregnancy.

When should I see a health care provider if I have been trying, but unable to get pregnant?

For women younger than age 35, most experts suggest trying for at least one year. However, for women aged 35 years or older, individuals should see a health care provider after 6 months of trying unsuccessfully. Some health problems also increase the risk of infertility. Individuals with the following signs or symptoms should not delay seeing their health care provider when they are trying to become pregnant:

• Irregular periods or no menstrual periods.
• Very painful periods.
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• More than one miscarriage.
• Suspected male factor (i.e. history of testicular trauma, hernia surgery, chemotherapy, or infertility with another partner).

It is a good idea to talk to a health care provider before trying to get pregnant. They can help you get your body ready for a healthy baby and can also answer questions on fertility and give tips on conceiving. Learn more at the CDC’s Preconception Health Web site.