How to avoid pregnancy after sex

Over the years, various foods and fruits have been suggested in folklore and myths as ways to avoid pregnancies. None of them has any scientific backing. Here are some foods and fruits that are often mentioned:

1. Pineapple
Pineapple is one of the fruits often associated with pregnancy prevention myths. It is believed that consumption of pineapple or juice will change the body’s hormonal condition to avoid pregnancy, as it is said that pineapple has an enzyme known as bromelain that would affect the uterine lining.

Fact: There are no facts to show that the bromelain within a pineapple can prevent pregnancy. While factually, pineapple is rich in vitamins like vitamin C; nutritionally, it cannot be used for preventing pregnancy.

2. Papaya
Papaya is another fruit often mentioned in discussions about pregnancy prevention. It is thought that the enzymes in unripe papaya could act as a form of contraception by interfering with the fertilization process.

Fact: While unripe papaya contains papain, which can have effects on digestion, there is no scientific proof that papaya can stop pregnancy. Eating papaya may support digestion, but it does not have contraceptive properties.

3. Ginger
Ginger may also be believed to be used effectively for post-sex contraception. One claims drinking ginger tea or eating ginger after intercourse can ward off pregnancy.

Fact: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and aids in digestion; however, it cannot prevent pregnancy. It may alleviate nausea or soothing digestive upset, but it is not a form of contraception.

4. Cinnamon
Some say that sprinkling cinnamon, a common spice, immediately after having sex will help women become unable to conceive.

Fact: Cinnamon may be good for you-it’s a natural blood sugar regulator and great for your heart-but so far, there is no science behind it acting as a pregnancy preventor.

5. Vitamin C
There is also belief that high doses of vitamin C, which is packed in fruits such as oranges, lemons, or kiwi, can be labeled as an “abortion pill” and can terminate pregnancy by suppressing progesterone, the hormone that maintains a pregnancy.

Fact: It is not proven that high levels of vitamin C prevent pregnancy or has any kind of impact on the prevention or termination of a pregnancy. Besides, excessive intake of vitamin C may cause some health problems like stomach irritation or kidney stone formation.

Reliable Methods for Pregnancy Prevention
The only scientifically proven and reliable means of avoiding pregnancy after sex is either a contraceptive or emergency contraception. These include:
Contraceptive Pills: These are taken daily. They prevent ovulation, so the sperm cannot fertilize an egg.
IUDs (Intrauterine Devices): These are highly effective, long-term birth control devices inserted into the uterus.
Condoms: A barrier method preventing sperm from ever getting near the egg.
Emergency Contraceptive Pills: The ‘Morning-After Pills’ Another form of emergency contraceptive pills must be taken within a few days of unprotected intercourse to prevent ovulation or fertilization and lower the chances of pregnancy.