Think you are pregnant?
If you have had unprotected sex and not used emergency contraception, there is a real risk that you could be pregnant.
There are loads of myths about pregnancy, but don't believe everything you hear. The truth is you CAN get pregnant:
- If it is the first time you've had sex
- Any time of the month, including during your period
- If you haven't started your period
- If your partner pulls his penis out before he comes (ejaculates)
- In any sexual position, including standing up
- Even if you stand up, jump up and down, or wash immediately after sex
- If you don't have an orgasm
Remember that if you have had unprotected sex, you can use emergency contraception.
There are two types of emergency contraception:
Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC), also known as the 'morning after pill' can be taken within three days (72 hours) from the time you had unprotected sex. Emergency contraception is more effective if taken within the first 24 hours, so it's important to take it as soon as possible.
Even if it is more than 72 hours after you had unprotected sex, get advice from your doctor or clinic as they are specially trained to help you and can talk to you about your options.
An emergency IUD (coil) can be fitted up to five days from the time you had sex. Once it has been fitted, you can keep it as a regular method of contraception. A new emergency contraceptive pill is also available which works up to five days after unprotected sex (120 hours).
To find your nearest service offering emergency contraception, click here and select 'Emergency Contraception' from the list.
How to tell if you're pregnant
The first sign of pregnancy is usually a missed period, but other signs of pregnancy can include:

- Feeling sick
- Tender breasts
- Tiredness
- Needing to urinate (pee) frequently
To be certain, you will need to take a pregnancy test. If you think you might be pregnant, you can get a free and confidential test at your GP, Contraceptive and Sexual Health clinic, some student health clinics or anywhere else displaying this logo.
To find a pregnancy testing service near you, click here and select 'Pregnancy Advice and Testing' from the list.
Support
If you are pregnant, remember, you are not on your own. Talk to someone you trust like a parent or family member, your partner, GP, school nurse, teacher, or youth worker.
The most important thing is you get the help and advice you need.
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