A.First, talk to a medical doctor – an OBGYN if you can. They know the real risk here. One to 10 percent is a big range. Different forms of birth control get you closer to zero.
Second, know that you can have physical intimacy without engaging in the kind of sex that can result in pregnancy. I’m not sure if you’ve already engaged in other activities with partners, but it’s not all or nothing, and there’s actually a lot of “all” that doesn’t involve the one thing giving you anxiety.
The best way to get over this mental hurdle, though, is to get the best information. Don’t make up math. Have an expert tell you what works – and also what you can ask of your partners.
If you talk to a doctor and it’s still a big stress – if your brain is focused on the one percent chance of pregnancy that might come with some IUDs, for instance – don’t cut yourself off from dating. Please enjoy the stuff in paragraph two. You are young and you should pursue what you want, in any ways that feel safe to you. Others will understand.
Good luck. Go ask some questions.
– Meredith
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