Whether your protection mode has failed or you haven't used one, having unprotected sex can happen. As a gynecologist, I am often confronted with patients who have had unprotected sex and who now find themselves at risk of sexually transmitted diseases or unwanted pregnancy. It is important to understand the risks associated with unprotected sex and the steps you can take to protect yourself.
How to avoid an unwanted pregnancy To avoid an unwanted pregnancy, remember to take emergency contraception within 5 days of intercourse. There are 2 types of emergency contraception: hormonal emergency contraception and the IUD. Hormonal emergency contraception acts by stopping or delaying the release of the oocyte (ovulation). In pharmacies you can find the following two products: • Levonorgestrel, must be taken within 72 hours of having sex, • or Ulipristal acetate, must be taken within 120 hours of having sex to avoid pregnancy. The IUD is the most effective means of preventing pregnancy (99% effectiveness), and it is also a long-term method of contraception. It must be inserted by a healthcare professional within 5 days of unprotected sex. A quick installation will guarantee its effectiveness and will reassure you. How to react to the risk of STI transmission STIs are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites transmitted between partners during sex. If you suspect exposure to HIV after unprotected sex, contact a doctor as soon as possible. There is indeed a post-exposure treatment (TPE) to be taken within 48 hours. This short course of treatment reduces the risk of infecting your body with HIV by at least 80% after being exposed to it. Even if you don't notice any symptoms, it's best to get tested after unprotected sex, as some STIs are completely asymptomatic. For accurate results, you can get tested between the 2nd and 4th week after having unprotected sex.
Contact a specialist If you have ever had unprotected sex contact a specialist to help you. Some patients fear going to see their gynecologist after unprotected sex. Waiting too long comes with a risk: a possible pregnancy can only be avoided by reacting quickly enough, and post-exposure treatment can only help you if you start it soon enough. Know that as a gynecologist / obstetrician I am here to help you and not to judge you. Everything you tell me remains confidential. Don't hesitate to get help. Get tested regularly for STIs If you have unprotected sex, getting tested for sexually transmitted infections regularly is essential, as most STIs have no symptoms. Use a condom Ultimately, the best way to protect yourself is to use condoms. Condoms are very effective in preventing STIs and unwanted pregnancies, and they are readily available in pharmacies and supermarkets. The condom protects you from sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy I look forward to sharing more tips with you in my next post. To not miss my advice, subscribe to the page or subscribe to the newsletter. Also share my tips with your loved ones and share the blog link with them. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office to schedule an appointment.
Image source : "https://fr.freepik.com/photos-gratuite/femme-afro-americaine-irritee-arrogante-fatiguee-s-ennuie-facepalms-tenir-main-yeux-fermes-pincant-levres_36151483.htm#query=regretting%20woman&position=2&from_view=search&track=ais">Image de benzoix</a> sur Freepik
Comentários