Planned Parenthood

Someone asked us:

Can I use a tampon while having sex to prevent a pregnancy? Because it sucks up the sperm?

No — tampons don’t do a thing to prevent pregnancy. You should use birth control methods that are safe, reliable, and effective. Tampons are not a form of birth control, and they won’t prevent pregnancy by absorbing sperm. Using one to prevent pregnancy is neither safe nor effective. 

And by the way, it’s not a good idea to wear a tampon during vaginal sex in general. While it’s not possible to “lose” a tampon in your vagina – after all, there’s nowhere for it to go since it can’t go past your vaginal canal – it is possible for vaginal sex to push a tampon too far in for you to retrieve it. In some cases, you might need to see a health care provider to get it out. So tampons and sex don’t mix well at all.

If you’re looking for a birth control method that’s cheap (compared to tampons) and easy to find at any old drug store, consider using condoms. They’re safe and effective at preventing both pregnancy and the spread of STDs. Learn more about condoms. 

- Nina at Planned Parenthood