You might have heard that vaginal cleaning after sex — using things like vinegar, steam, vaginal cleansers, yogurt, or probiotics (supplements that have “good” germs) — can prevent pregnancy. But this doesn’t work.

The fact is that sperm swim very fast and many reach the uterus before someone even starts to wash. Cleaning the vagina (sometimes called douching) can even push sperm into the uterus. It can also cause a pelvic infection.

Should I Use Birth Control Instead?

To avoid getting pregnant, use reliable birth control. Some methods are better at preventing pregnancy than others. For example, birth control pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs) are very good when used the right way.

What Else Should I Know?

You should also use condoms during sex to avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Condoms alone can help prevent pregnancy too, but they don’t work as well as other types of birth control.

Keep in mind that STDs can also spread through anal or oral sex, by using fingers, or through other types of sexual contact. So use protection like finger condoms and dental dams as well. The only way to fully prevent STDs and pregnancy is to not have sex.

Talk with your doctor or go to a health clinic (like Planned Parenthood) to learn more about what birth control choices are best for you.