The short answer is yes. The only way to not get pregnant is to not have sex. It is possible to get pregnant while taking birth control; however, the likelihood of that happening depends on what type of birth control that you use and how you use your birth control. Remember, you can only get pregnant a few days leading up to ovulation and about 1 day after ovulation. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of birth control and how they could fail.
Birth Control Pills: The main way birth control pills work is by preventing ovulation. If not taken every day or at the same time every day, you could ovulate and get pregnant.
IUDs: IUDs prevent pregnancy mostly by making the uterus not conducive to a pregnancy. If they are placed incorrectly, move, or get dislodged, a woman could get pregnant.
Nexplanon: Nexplanon secretes a hormone into the body that either prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, or keeps the uterine lining thin. If placed incorrectly, or if it moves, a woman could get pregnant.
Condoms, Diaphragms, Cervical Caps, Etc: If not used perfectly, a woman could get pregnant.
Fertility Awareness Methods: If all the rules are not followed, a woman who has sex during her fertile window could get pregnant.
Tubal Ligation: This is a permanent form of birth control and prevents pregnancy by nearly 100%. If the surgery is done incorrectly, there is a small possibility that a woman could get pregnant.
If you are on birth control, have missed a period, or believe you could be pregnant, it is important to get a medical pregnancy test and talk to a medical professional. Call or click today to make your appointment!
For additional reading, see Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler.
Keely Darnell, BSN, MSN, RN, WHNP-BC
Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner
This post is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition. If you have any concerns, please speak with a healthcare provider
