Signs of Pregnancy

Table of Contents

Section II–Playing It Safe

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Discuss birth control options with your health care provider to determine
what's best for you. More than one method may be needed to prevent both
pregnancy and HIV and STDs. If no method is used, the chance
of pregnancy is between 85 and 90%.

	Abstinence ­ no sexual intercourse. 100% effective in preventing pregnancy, HIV and STDs.
	Birth Control Patch ­ hormones from a prescribed patch worn on the skin weekly for 3 weeks; not worn the 4th week. About 99% effective. Does not prevent STDs and HIV.
	Birth Control Pill ­ hormones in pill form by prescription only. 95% to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs and HIV. Must be taken as prescribed. Some medications can make the pill less effective.
	Condom (Female) ­ polyurethane barrier placed inside the vagina like a lining. 79% to 95% effective in preventing pregnancy. Offers effective protection against STDs and HIV. Should not be used at same time with a male condom. Available over-the-counter. Can take time and patience to use correctly.
	Condom (Male) ­ thin pliable sheath worn over an erect penis. 86% to 97% effective in preventing pregnancy. Latex and polyurethane condoms protect against some STDs and HIV and are more durable than ones made of animal membranes. Latex ones deteriorate when exposed to UV light, heat, and oil-based lubricants, etc. Use polyurethane condoms if allergic to latex. {Note: Your college's Health Services may offer condoms free of charge.}
	Depo-Provera ­ a female prescription contraceptive given by injection every 3 months. 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs and HIV.
	Diaphragm ­ reusable, thin, soft, rubber cap that covers the cervix. 82% to 94% effective in preventing pregnancy. Helps protect against some STDs when used with spermicides. Should be checked for leaks. Size may need to be changed with weight changes. May dislodge during intercourse.
	Intrauterine Device (IUD) ­ small copper device inserted into uterus by a health care provider and remains in place until he or she removes it. 97% to 99% effective. You will be instructed to check for the 2 strings that hang from the bottom of the IUD to make sure it is in the proper position. Does not prevent STDs and HIV.
	Lunelle ­ hormone shot given monthly, usually in a doctor's office. About 99% effective. Does not prevent STDs and HIV.
	Natural Family Planning (Fertility Awareness, Periodic Abstinence) ­ method that involves precise measurements and observations. 77 to 84% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs and HIV.
	NuvaRing ­ prescribed contraceptive ring that a female inserts into the vagina. The ring stays in place for 3 weeks; is removed the week of menstrual period. 98 to 99% effective. Does not prevent STDs or HIV.
	Spermicides (Foams, Jellies, Creams, etc.) ­ spermicides inserted into the vagina that kill sperm before entering the uterus. 79 to 94% effective in preventing pregnancy. Available OTC. More reliable when used with condoms or diaphragms. Protect against some STDs. Use as directed on label.
	Sterilization (Female): Tubal Ligation (Having Tubes Tied) ­ surgical, permanent form of birth control to burn, cut, or tie off the fallopian tubes. 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs or HIV.
	Sterilization (Male): Vasectomy ­ permanent form of birth control in which the tubes through which sperm travels from the testes (vas deferens) are cut. 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs or HIV.
	Withdrawal ­ Removal of the penis before ejaculation. 72 to 81% effective in preventing pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs and HIV. Control of ejaculation is necessary and sperm may leak before this occurs.

Signs of
Pregnancy

	Missed menstrual periods {Note: Stress or illness can cause your period to be late, too. And, some females do not have regular periods. It may be hard for them to know if their period is 2 weeks late. Other females can have a light menstrual period or spotting and still be pregnant. So watch for other signs also listed here.}
	Abnormal vaginal bleeding
	Breast tenderness, swelling, and/or tingling
	The dark areas around the nipples are darker than before and the tiny glands around the nipples stick up.
	Feeling tired
	Nausea or vomiting
	Frequent urination
	Unusual food cravings or your taste for certain foods changes; a metallic taste in the mouth
	Mood swings
	Slight elevation in body temperature
	Acne due to extra-active oil glands

If there's even a small chance you could be
pregnant, call your health care provider.

Pregnancy Termination Methods

	Abortion Pill ­ Mifepristone, commonly known as RU-486. Requires 3 separate visits to a doctor who meets certain qualifications. The pill (mifepristone) is given at the 1st visit. A different medicine is given at the 2nd visit. An exam to make sure the pregnancy has been terminated is done at the 3rd visit. About 96% effective in terminating a pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs or HIV.
	Emergency Hormonal Contraception ­ prescribed pills taken within 72 hours of sex. 75% to 95% effective in terminating a pregnancy. Does not prevent STDs or HIV.

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6th edition. American Institute for Preventive Medicine
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December 08, 2005