Pregnancy Aged 35-55

Crisis and unplanned pregnancies don’t just happen to young people. Women in their 30s and 40s have unprotected sex – often because they assume that they are menopausal and had a low risk of pregnancy. In fact very few women are infertile before the age of 45.

There are lots of contraceptive choices available, and what suited you in the past may no longer be best for you. Your choice will depend on if you want to have (more) children, your health, your personal preference and whether you need protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

DID YOU KNOW?
If your method of contraception fails – or if you have unprotected sex – Emergency Contraception (otherwise known as EC, or the ‘morning-after pill’) will usually stop you from getting pregnant. Emergency Contraception can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, but the sooner it’s taken the more effective it is. Ask your GP or well-woman/family planning clinic for advice.

More information on Emergency Contraception.

DID YOU KNOW?
You need to use contraception for one year after your periods have stopped completely (the menopause), or two years if the menopause happens before you are 50.

More information on your contraception choices.