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What to do after unprotected sex

We all make mistakes, and sometimes those mistakes involve unprotected sex. Whether it was a spur-of-the-moment decision, a broken condom, or something else, the important thing is to act quickly and responsibly. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you navigate what to do next.

First things first: take a deep breath. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or scared, but panicking won’t help. What will help is taking quick, smart action. The faster you act, the better your chances of preventing any unwanted consequences like pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Unprotected sex can expose you to STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, HIV, or syphilis. Many STIs don’t have obvious symptoms, so even if you feel fine, it’s important to get tested. Here’s a general timeline:

Within 72 hours: If you’re concerned about HIV exposure, consider post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). This is a medication you take for 28 days to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. PEP must be started within 72 hours, so act fast.

After 2 weeks, testing for some bacterial STIs (like gonorrhea and chlamydia) can give accurate results. After 1-3 months, testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis may provide accurate results depending on the test.

Find a nearby clinic or healthcare provider to get tested. Many clinics offer free or low-cost testing services, especially for young people.

Unprotected sex can leave you feeling anxious or guilty. These feelings are normal, but don’t let them consume you. Talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or counselor. If you’re too embarrassed to speak face-to-face, there are online platforms where you can get confidential advice and support.

Once you’ve dealt with the immediate concerns, it’s time to think about how to prevent this situation in the future. Here’s what you can do:

Stock up on condoms. They are are over 98% effective at preventing pregnancy and most STIs when used correctly. Keep a stash handy.

Explore other birth control options and learn more about sexual health. The more you know, the better choices you’ll make. There are great resources online to help you stay informed.

If pregnancy is a concern, emergency contraception (often called the morning-after pill) can be an option. Plan B is available over-the-counter in most places. It works best if taken within 72 hours (3 days) but can still be effective up to 5 days after sex.

The sooner you take emergency contraception, the better it works. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, ask a pharmacist or a healthcare provider.

Read more about Plan B: https://kura.rw/is-plan-b-really-a-good-plan-b/

If you’re unsure about what steps to take, reach out to a healthcare provider or sexual health clinic. They’re not there to judge you—they’re there to help.

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