If you are having sex without a condom and not getting pregnant, you may have little to worry about. Timing is an important factor in trying to conceive and sometimes it takes a few months to become pregnant. Couples trying to get pregnant for one year or longer should talk to a doctor about possible fertility problems.
How Does a Condom Work?
A condom is a simple form of birth control, typically used by the male. This barrier method of birth control is made of latex, a type of rubber. People who are allergic to latex can opt for condoms made of a type of plastic called polyurethane.
Some condoms have spermicidal agents that further help to prevent pregnancy. These agents aren’t the best choice for everyone as they can cause irritation, especially in individuals with sensitivities. The condom is effective with or without spermicide.
It is always best to use a condom if there is a chance that your partner has a sexually transmitted disease. If this is the case, it is important to talk to a physician about the options you have in becoming pregnant without contracting the disease.
Having Sex without a Condom and Not Getting Pregnant
Couples having sex without a condom and not getting pregnant may quickly become exasperated. In many cases, the problem is a simple matter of timing, but if trying to conceive consistently isn’t successful after 12 months, it may be time to discuss possible infertility problems with your doctor.
The Best Time to Get Pregnant
Figuring out the best time of the month to get pregnant is a helpful step in planning to conceive. Many different methods can help pinpoint when ovulation occurs, but it is most important to have sex before ovulating to assure that you don’t miss the small window of time that you can get pregnant.
If you are having sex without a condom and not getting pregnant, some things you can try are:
Plan to have sex about two weeks after your period begins. Start counting days from the first day of your menstrual cycle. Fertility is likely to be between 10 and 16 days after the cycle begins if you have regular periods.
Take a home ovulation test. Kits are relatively inexpensive and they help by measuring hormones associated with ovulation to pinpoint the best days to try to conceive.
Track your cycles on a calendar to try to discover when ovulation occurs. Taking your basal temperature may help you track your fertility cycle.
Plan to have intercourse every other day without birth control. This schedule may not be realistic for every couple but it significantly increases the chance to become pregnant.
