My condom broke! What do I do now?!!
Do not panic!
Condom breaks are not common. In most cases it usually only happens when couples do not follow the recommendations on proper condom use.
When this happens take a deep breath and think the situation through to make a sensible decisions.
These are the main things that you will need to think about:
- Pregnancy
- HIV
- STDs
1.) Pregnancy
The best thing you can do within the first 48 hours is to see a Doctor and get morning after pills. These are most effective if taken within 48 hours.
*For women: DO NOT douche immediately after a condom break. This can drive sperm and bacteria deeper into your vagina.
2.) HIV
Have a calm discussion with your partner about his or her risk of HIV. This should include a history of intravenous drug use, multiple sexual partners, visits to prostitutes or men who have ever had sex with another man. These are factors that may increase their risk of contracting HIV. Women are at a higher risk than men to catch HIV especially if the condom broke after ejaculation.
If your HIV risk is high please see a doctor within 72 hours for HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). This will significantly reduce your risk of getting HIV especially if taken within the first 24 hours.
Remember that a recent negative test for HIV does not guarantee that your partner does not have HIV as he or she might still be in the window period.
If you think the risk of HIV is not high, both of you should go for HIV testing at 1 month. The 4th generation rapid test is conclusive at this stage. Please keep each other informed about your HIV test results if possible.
If you are unable to determine the risk level, see a Doctor immediately for a discussion on HIV PEP.
So how does HIV Post Exposure Prophylaxis (HIV PEP)?
Check out the video below:
3.) Sexually Transmitted Diseases STDs or Sexually Transmitted Infections STIs.
The probability of either party getting an STD after the condom broke is high. Some STDs sometimes may not show symptoms and your partner may not be aware of it. This is why both of you should see your Doctor and be screened for STDs such as Syphilis, Hepatitis B, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
Other STDs such as NSU, Hepatitis C, Herpes and HPV may also be screened for.
How to prevent condom breaks?
- DO use water based lubricants such as KY jelly.
- DO use proper sized condoms.
- DO hold onto the condom when withdrawing.
- DO store condoms in a cool dry place.
- DO NOT reuse a condom.
- DO NOT open the condom package with your teeth, keys or any sharp object.
- DO NOT unroll the condom before putting it on.
- DO NOT wear 2 condoms at once. Friction can cause breakage.
- DO NOT use oil based lubricants such as Vaseline. This can weaken the latex.
- DO NOT use expired condoms.
Again if you think you had a high risk exposure to HIV within the past 72 hours, please see a doctor to find out more on HIV PEP Treatment.
For more questions, please email them at hello@dtapclinic.com.sg to make an appointment today or visit them at www.dtapclinic.com
