What to Do After Unprotected Sex?

Introduction

If a person is experiencing a situation wherein, during sexual activity, the condom is broken or has been involved in unprotected sex; the foremost important point is not to panic. This is very common and happens to a huge number of people.

But there are some chances of infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) to occur when involved in unprotected sex. So to avoid any, there are plenty of precautions as well as immediate actions, which, when done properly, may reduce the risks altogether. Also, there is an enormous risk of unintended pregnancies as a result of unprotected sex. This article discusses some self-care and basic things to do to ensure personal hygiene and health after unprotected sex.

What Should Be Done When the Condom Is Broken?

Even though it is recommended to use protection when indulging in sexual activity, the efficiency of condoms is only 85 %. This means there is a probability of 15 % that the condom which individuals use may fail. In times when they find out that the condom is broken, first, do not panic and stop any sort of sexual activity and step aside from the partner.

Next, go to the bathroom and remove all the fluids around the genitals, that is, vagina, penis, or, anus. This will make sure that they are comfortable and removes the risk of any bacterial infection.

Now try to wash gently using lukewarm water or take a shower and remove all the excess fluid from inside, if any. Peeing can also help in washing down any infectious microbes. It is most important that individuals only wash and never douche. Douching products can cause irritation and inflammation and increase the risk of infection.

Many people do not emotionally and psychologically prepare for unprotected sex because the majority of incidents are accidents. And when come to the realization it is acceptable to feel a variety of emotions, including rage, tension, anxiety, and melancholy. Individuals must be in the right mental state and never hesitate to reach out to close family or friends. In case anyone needs emergency contraceptives, try reaching out to the nearest pharmacy, as some of the emergency contraceptives do not require a prescription and are available over the counter.

What to Do Within Three to Five Days of Unprotected Sex?

While some of the STIs (sexually transmitted infections) are asymptomatic, most of them show some sort of symptoms such as sores, smelly discharges, itchiness, or pain during urination. So keep an eye on such kinds of symptoms and also one’s genitals. Schedule an STI test in case of any symptoms to avoid major problems.

Emergency contraceptives are recommended to be taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex as they can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 95 %, and the probability reduces to 88 % when taken within 72 hours. They prevent pregnancy by blocking biological processes like ovulation. Suppose an individual has concerns regarding HIV contraction; in that case, post-exposure prophylaxis can reduce the risk of infection, and it is also recommended to be taken within three days of unprotected sex.

If an individual wants other emergency contraceptives, such as Ella or Paragrad, to be taken five to six days after unprotected sex, a prescription is required from a healthcare professional. Ella is a pill that delays ovulation by blocking progesterone hormone and hence reduces the chance of pregnancy by 85 %. Paragrad is the most effective form of emergency contraceptive, and it is an intrauterine device with a failure rate of one in 1000 people after use. It works efficiently on day five as well, and hence timing is also not a factor. But of course, a prescription is needed, and hence it is costly.

What Are the Symptoms and Time Frames of Various STIs?

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are sexually transmitted diseases that can result due to unprotected sex and have symptoms like unusual discharge and pain during urinating. In case of transmission due to oral sex, throat pain, and stomach pain are observed. Also, look out for bleeding after sex and in between periods. Since these STIs can have some serious issues, including infertility, it is essential to test for these infections. Waiting for a period of two weeks after exposure is the best time for tests as it can produce the most reliable result.

The most feared sexually transmitted infections are herpes, and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) as both of these diseases do not have a cure. Genital herpes is characterized by blisters that leave open sores and have irritation or burning sensations. When it comes to HIV, the symptoms are very similar to flu and appear after a short term of exposure. Since both these infections have a long incubation period, waiting for a minimum of three weeks is advised for taking tests for either of these infections. Another STI which is very hard to spot is syphilis, as it has no symptoms at all. Even though there are no fixed symptoms, there are a few signs with which one can identify the infection, such as

• Fever.

• Headaches.

• Small sores or growths on genitals or mouth.

• Joint pain.

• Rash in feet and palm.

Since the incubation period for syphilis is much longer than the other infections, it is recommended to wait for at least six weeks before taking a test since the results are much more reliable during this time frame.

How to Determine Pregnancy Due to Unprotected Sex?

Every year almost three million women in the U.S. (United States) alone have unintended pregnancies as a result of unprotected sex or due to condom breakage. So if individuals are experiencing such a situation in their life, do not panic and be aware that they are far from being the only person it has happened to. This does not mean that unprotected sex will always lead to pregnancy, but there is a strong possibility that pregnancy can be expected from it.

As discussed earlier, birth control pills and contraception can be used to avoid pregnancy if a person is planning unprotected sex. Also, in case of unintended accidents such as the failure of condoms, there is always emergency contraception which is discussed above. The first thing to watch out for is missed periods if one believes one could be pregnant. Suppose there is such a sign, take a pregnancy test to confirm. When it comes to taking pregnancy tests, it is detected using the hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). It takes time for the body to build upon HCG, so it is recommended to wait for 3 weeks after unprotected sex before taking the test. If the test result is positive, meet the healthcare professional to discuss the next steps.

What Things Should Be Considered for Next Time?

Whether it is accidental or intentional unprotected sex, some steps can reduce the consequences.

• Barrier Methods: Barrier methods are used to reduce the risk of STIs. They include condoms, gloves, and dental dams for oral sex. When using condoms, make sure that they are not expired, and do not open them using any sharp objects as it may cause accidental cuts or nicks.

• Secondary Conceptions: Condoms can help against STIs, but they cannot function effectively as contraception. Hence always prefer birth control options such as pills or in case of long-term goals use IUD (intrauterine device). There is also emergency contraception that can be taken after sexual activity in case of the failure of condoms.

• STI Screening: It is important to get tested regularly for STIs for sexual health. It is advised to take these tests once a year and, in the case of multiple partners, increase the frequency to every three to six months.

Conclusion

Having a good sexual routine is very important since it enhances a person’s metabolism, and concentration and has other health-related benefits. But it is also equally important to have safe sexual practices. So, whether it is intentional or accidental unprotected sex, there are plenty of steps that can be taken to maintain sexual health to avoid infections and pregnancy. If sexually active, always make use of a barrier method, it can reduce the consequences to a very great intent.