3 things to do after sex without a condom

Had unprotected sex? Don't panic, here is what you need to do next.

By: Debjani Arora | | Updated: August 4, 2016 12:24 pm

Tags: Unprotected sex Unwanted pregnancies

Read this in Hindi. Also Read - World Contraception Day: Common contraceptive myths busted

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Even though an episode of unprotected sex might not bother you too much, the fear of an unwanted pregnancy can make you go weak in the knees. While protection during sex is imperative, there could be a lot of reasons that could lead to unprotected sex condom tear, untimely intake of contraception pills, unpreparedness before intercourse or sheer ignorance. All this could increase your chances of getting affected with a STD or an unwanted pregnancy. However, there are ways to avert such incidences by just acting the right way. Here are 11 ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Also Read - Stop believing these myths about contraceptive pills

Here is what you should do after an episode of unprotected sex:

Look for unusual signs

An episode of unprotected sex increases the chances of acquiring a STD in both men and women alike, and that of an unwanted pregnancy in women by manifolds. Remember, if you have contracted an STD, the symptoms could remain dormant for too long before you know that you are affected. However, look for the following signs that can give you a clue that everything isn’t normal with you after the act:

Unexplained bleeding: Although this symptom might be associated with women more than men, it is not unnatural if a man also experiences some amount of blood in the genital areas after having unprotected sex. It’s a sign that there could be an infection in your urinary tract that needs immediate attention. Here is all that you need to know about vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse.
Pain during urination: This is commonly believed to be a sign of urinary tract infection (UTI) but at times can be an indication of acquired STD.
Pain during sex: If you indulge in intercourse soon after an act of unprotected sex and experience pain during penetration (in case of women) or during ejaculation (in case of men), chances are it might be an outcome of an infection. Here are six reasons for pain in men that you need to know about.
Rashes and sores: Rashes and sores around the genitals are not a normal sign and should raise your suspicion when you spot them. Even if it doesn t itch, pain or cause burning sensations, it is advisable to report it to you doctor immediately.

Take the morning after pill

However, it might be possible that you don’t see any of these symptoms the morning after having unprotected sex. But that still doesn’t rule out the possibility of you getting pregnant. So pop an emergency contraceptive pill soon after the act. These are readily available over-the-counter and can prevent an accidental pregnancy when had within a few hours after a spontaneous intercourse. Depending on its strength and capacity, you can take the pill either within 48 or 72 hours of unprotected sex. The pill reverses hormonal reaction and prevents a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterine wall, in case it is formed. Here are eight other contraceptive methods that can save you from unwanted pregnancy.

Do a home pregnancy test

No matter on which days you had unprotected sex, you still have a fair chance of getting pregnant during your safe-sex days. So, if you have doubts about unwanted pregnancy and your periods are delayed the very next month, do a home pregnancy test to confirm your status. Remember, the earlier you find out about an unplanned pregnancy, the better.

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Published : March 12, 2015 7:56 pm | Updated:August 4, 2016 12:24 pm

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