Does Douching Prevent Pregnancy?

Does douching after sex prevent a girl from getting pregnant?
– Clara*

No. Douching does not prevent pregnancy. Sperm swim very fast and many reach the uterus before someone even begins to douche. Also, douching can actually push sperm into the uterus. Douching also makes it more likely that you can develop a pelvic infection.

If you decide to have sex, use reliable birth control. Some birth control methods are better at stopping pregnancy than others. For example, birth control pills and the IUD are very good at preventing pregnancy when used properly.

No matter which birth control method you choose, also use condoms to help prevent STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Condoms used alone also can help prevent pregnancy, but they're not as reliable as some other birth control methods.

Talk to your doctor or go to a local clinic (like Planned Parenthood) to find out what birth control option is best for you.

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.