Can Washing the Uterus Prevent Pregnancy After Unprotected Intercourse?

Can this prevent pregnancy?

My boyfriend suddenly decided to go without a condom for the first time.
Although he withdrew before ejaculation, I know this is very risky.
Unfortunately, I later realized that I was in my fertile window.
Afterward, I remembered an elder saying that using a uterine cleansing agent or cold water to rinse the uterus could reduce the chances of pregnancy.
(That elder mentioned that sperm are afraid of cold water, but I am skeptical about this claim.) Therefore, I would like to consult with you, doctor.
Thank you.

Feiyen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/09/10

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Washing the vaginal canal immediately after intercourse may reduce the chances of pregnancy, but it is not guaranteed.
If contraception was not used and pregnancy is not desired, it is safer to take emergency contraception within 72 hours.

Reply Date: 2002/09/10

More Info

Washing the uterus after unprotected intercourse is a common misconception and is not an effective method for preventing pregnancy. The idea that rinsing the uterus with water or any other solution can eliminate sperm is not supported by scientific evidence. Once sperm is deposited in the vagina, it can quickly travel through the cervix into the uterus and beyond, often within minutes. Therefore, any attempt to wash out the uterus after intercourse is unlikely to have any significant impact on the likelihood of pregnancy.

The notion that "cold water" can kill sperm is also misleading. While extreme temperatures can affect sperm viability, the conditions within the human body are designed to maintain a stable environment for sperm and embryos. Sperm are quite resilient and can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, waiting for an egg to fertilize. Thus, washing the uterus with cold water or any other substance would not effectively prevent pregnancy.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, there are more reliable options available. One of the most effective methods is emergency contraception, commonly known as the "morning-after pill." These pills are designed to be taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected sex (typically within 72 to 120 hours) and can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pills: levonorgestrel (Plan B) and ulipristal acetate (ella). Both work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg.

It's important to note that emergency contraception is not an abortion pill and will not be effective if implantation has already occurred. Therefore, if you suspect you might be pregnant, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance.

In addition to emergency contraception, if you are sexually active and wish to prevent pregnancy in the future, consider discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. There are various methods available, including hormonal birth control (pills, patches, injections), intrauterine devices (IUDs), and barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms). Each method has its own benefits and considerations, and a healthcare provider can help you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle and health needs.

In summary, washing the uterus is not a viable method for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Instead, consider using emergency contraception and consult with a healthcare provider to explore effective long-term contraceptive options. Always prioritize safe sex practices, including the use of condoms, to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

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