Family Planning Plus

It is highly unlikely that you would become pregnant from yesterday’s sex if you took all of the hormone pills in your pack as directed (around the same time every day). If you do not wish to be pregnant, start your next pack at the regular time.

If you wish to attempt pregnancy, switch to condoms for three months before attempting pregnancy. Most experts advise women on the birth control pill to wait at least three months after stopping the pill to attempt pregnancy.  Although the hormones are very quickly passed from your system, this time period will allow you to resume regular menstrual cycles so a pregnancy can be dated.  This also allows the uterine lining to thicken and provide a better site for the placenta to implant and grow.  

The following tips will help to ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy. 

• Schedule a pre-pregnancy appointment with your doctor.  Let your doctor know you are planning a pregnancy.  Your doctor will review your family health history, be sure you have the proper immunizations, review your medications, schedule any needed tests, and discuss your present health behaviors/lifestyle and recommend changes.
• Begin taking a daily multivitamin with 400 mcg of folic acid ( a B vitamin that prevents birth defects of the brain and spine).
• If you smoke, quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• If you use street drugs, stop using them, and check with a doctor before using prescription or over-the-counter medications (some medications are not safe to use during pregnancy).
• Eat healthfully and maintain a healthy weight.
• Be sure to get regular preventive medical care.
• Reduce the amount of stress in your life (if possible).
• Get regular exercise.  Walking, swimming, stretching, and housework are all good exercise choices before and during pregnancy.