No matter how careful we try to be during sex, sometimes accidents happen and the condom can split. If this is the case, it’s important that you take precautionary measures to limit the risk of STDs and pregnancy. The earlier you take these measures the better – here are some things to remember if you find yourself in such a situation.
Many women think that douching will remove any risk of an unplanned pregnancy, but this is not the case. Not only will it not affect your risk of pregnancy, but it may actually lead to pelvic infections due to altering the balance of yeast and bacteria in the reproductive tract. Generally speaking, this method is not a good idea so it’s best avoided.
The emergency contraceptive pill is a good idea if you’ve had unprotected sex so as to avoid unplanned pregnancy. However, it is important that you remember that it’s effectiveness decreases the longer you leave it – after 72 hours, it is too late. So, if you’ve had unprotected sex, be sure to get the pill as soon as possible after the sexual encounter. There are some side effects to be aware of, which include nausea, headache and dizziness.
You should check for pregnancy in any case, as the morning after pill doesn’t guarantee success. If you notice any changes with your monthly cycle, or your period is more than one week late, you should take a pregnancy test to check.
STDs are a risk with unprotected sex and if it’s already happened, you can’t prevent them, but you can treat them effectively and get medication for anything you’ve caught. It’s a good idea to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases regularly, even if you’ve been having protected sex, just to be on the safe side, but especially if you’ve had unprotected sex. Medical professionals suggest being tested for chlamydia, HIV, syphilis and gonorrhoea.
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