Pregnancy
If you don’t want to get pregnant then the best way to avoid it is to find a method of contraception that suits you.
You can read up on your options on this website or you can talk to someone at a 4YP sexual health service. All our services are confidential, free and friendly, and you won’t be judged by our staff.
Remember, whatever friends or partners might say you CAN get pregnant:
- the first time you have sex
- if you have sex standing up
- if you had sex on your period or with a girl on her period
- If a guy pulls out before he ejaculates
Read more sex myths here.
DID YOU KNOW? Condoms are the ONLY method that protects against pregnancy AND sexually transmitted infections?
How do you get pregnant?
Women can get pregnant if:
- They have unprotected sex. This means that no form of contraception was used.
- A form of contraception was used, but something stopped it from working. For example, the condom split or you forgot to take your pill.
I’ve had unprotected sex
If you have had unprotected sex within the last 72 hours (3 days) you can get free emergency contraception from one of the many pharmacies that are 4YP badged or other services across Bristol.
Another option is that you can have an IUD coil fitted (up to 120 hours/5 days later). You will need to go to a sexual health clinic for this. The main thing to remember is that you should continue to use condoms if you are having sex.
What are the signs I am pregnant?
- Missed period
- Swelling or tenderness of the breasts
- Feeling sick (often called morning sickness, although not always occurring in the morning)
- Frequent need to wee
- Feeling tired
- Changes in appetite or going off certain foods
The only way to know for sure is to take a pregnancy test. If you are under 24 and live in Bristol you can get one for free. To search for your nearest service, click here
I’m pregnant but don’t know what to do
You need to think carefully about your decision and what is best for you. Don’t ignore the situation because it won’t just go away. It’s good to have as many options as possible and the earlier you find out, the more options you have.
There are lots of people you can talk to in Bristol who will help you make a decision such as sexual health workers, doctors and counsellors. Search here to find your nearest.
You can also visit the Bristol Pregnancy Advisory Service. You can call them to make an appointment on 0117 927 6362.
What are my options?
No one can make this decision for you but if you are pregnant, there are 3 options available to you:
- Abortion – ending the pregnancy
- Adoption once the baby is born
- Keeping the baby
Deciding what to do will be hard, especially if you didn’t plan to get pregnant. You may need to consider your age, relationship with the father, family, financial situation, housing, and cultural factors amongst others.
You can get advice and support from 4YP services across Bristol and your friends and family could help too. Search for help here.
