Frequently asked questions about birth control

What is effective birth control?

Remember any birth control method can fail. Effective birth control means using a reliable combination of at least two birth control methods at the same time to prevent pregnancy.

Are there any birth control methods I should avoid?

Yes. If you are serious about avoiding pregnancy, you should not use the rhythm method (also known as fertility awareness) or the withdrawal method — they are risky and unreliable.

Don’t use the rhythm method/fertility awareness

Fertility awareness is not a very effective form of contraception. In this method, a woman keeps track of her monthly menstrual cycle by taking her temperature, checking the thickness of mucous in her vagina, and by tracking her periods on a calendar.

Teens in particular shouldn’t rely on this method, because their cycles are still unpredictable. Some women may be tempted to have sex during their fertile periods, and it won’t work if their partners aren't willing to cooperate.

Don’t use the withdrawal method

In this method, a man withdraws his penis from a woman’s vagina before ejaculation. Withdrawal requires a lot of self-control and practice, and it can be difficult to get the timing right.

When should I start/stop using birth control?

To prevent pregnancy during Clarus therapy, you must use effective birth control for at least one month before you start Clarus , while you're taking Clarus, and for at least one month after you stop taking Clarus.

What is considered 'unprotected sex’?

In the case of Clarus , unprotected sex means not using two forms of effective birth control every time you have sex while taking Clarus and for one month after you stop taking Clarus .

Regardless of how it happens, unprotected sex opens the door to the possibility of an unwanted pregnancy. Unprotected sex also happens if you find yourself in one of these situations:

• You had an accident, such as a broken or slipped condom or slipped diaphragm
• You forgot to take your birth-control pills for two or more days before having sex
• You had intercourse unexpectedly without using two methods of birth control
• You were forced to have sex or awoke to realize you were having sex
• You have vomiting or diarrhea within a few hours of taking your birth control pill

What should I do if I have unprotected sex while taking Clarus?

Remember that you should never have unprotected sex while taking Clarus therapy and for one month after you stop the medication.

Call your doctor, or the Action Canada for Sexual Health & Rights bilingual hotline,1-888-642-2725, for information about getting emergency contraception in your area, or call the toll-free birth control counselling hotline at 1-855-500-9991.

Stop taking Clarus and contact your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking Clarus or during the first month after treatment has stopped.

Can I get pregnant if I had sex just once?

Yes. A woman who is ovulating can get pregnant on her very first time having sex, regardless of her age or her sexual history.

Will I get pregnant if I douche after sex?

Douching does very little to prevent conception. After sexual intercourse, the sperm enter the cervix where they are out of reach of any douching solution.

Can I get pregnant if I use birth control?

Yes you can. No matter what form of birth control you use, there is always the possibility it may fail, especially if used incorrectly. Always use two reliable forms of birth control together. The kind of birth control is also important. Progestogen-only birth control pills (mini-pills) may not work while you are taking Clarus . Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure what type you are using.

Are there certain times of the month when I can have unprotected sex?

No. Since each woman’s menstrual cycle is different, it’s almost impossible to predict which days are “safe.” Sperm can survive for several days in a woman’s body, so a couple could have sex well before the woman ovulates and still run the risk of pregnancy.

Can I get pregnant if I don’t have an orgasm?

Yes. Pregnancy occurs when a man’s sperm fertilizes a woman’s egg. This can happen whether or not she has an orgasm.

Can I get pregnant if I have sex standing up or if the woman is on top during sex?

Yes. Positions make very little difference when it comes to getting pregnant. When a man deposits sperm into a woman’s vagina, natural processes guide the sperm toward the woman’s cervix and uterus.

What should I do if my partner doesn’t want me to use birth control?

If you and/or your partner are not committed to using two methods of effective birth control, do not take Clarus.

What you should know about emergency contraception

If you have sex without using effective birth control while still taking Clarus, stop taking Clarus immediately and call your doctor. Also call your doctor if you have sex without using birth control during the month after you stopped taking Clarus. Emergency contraception, can be effective in preventing pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.