Note that we said “error” of having unprotected sex. Which means, by no means is this something that you should take any risk with. And honestly, there can be no margin for error here, or space for shifting of responsibilities. Sex without protection is a big NO and not just because you may get pregnant, there are far more dangerous irreversible things you might get afflicted with – STDs.
That said, accidents do happen – despite exercising sufficient precaution, and here is a checklist to help you through the damage control.
Cutting the chances of an UTI – Apart from fears of contracting an STD or ending up pregnant, there is a far greater, and almost certain chance of contracting a Urinary Tract Infection. To combat this, ensure you urinate within thirty minutes of having sex. Keep drinking lots of water in the next 48 hours to flush your system.
Emergency contraceptive pill – There are many types of contraceptive pills (which are easily available across the counter at any chemists’ shop), and depending on the type, a contraceptive pill is typical effective from 3-5 days after un-protective sex [within 72 hours of unprotected sex]. We recommend asking a gynecologist before you go ahead and have a pill, because your body type might require a different kind of contraception pill.
Emergency Coil – An emergency coil is an Intra-uterine device (IUD), which you can use up to five days post unprotected sex. It is said to be one of the most effective methods of contraception. It prevents conception and provides on-going contraception, i.e., if you are using an emergency coil during sex, there is little or no possibility of you getting pregnant. The process of inserting an emergency coil should by no means be a DIY method, since it is invasive. Ensure you visit a gynecologist in case you want to adopt this method of contraception.
Make a note of symptoms – Make note of any symptoms which may involve bleeding or pain when you pee, burning sensation, itching or sores. These are all symptoms of infection and you must visit a gynecologist as soon as you notice them.
Track your cycle – Tracking which stage your menstrual cycle is at will help you predict the chances of pregnancy. Though, you shouldn’t be very worried if you’ve already had a contraceptive pill, this is still something that is recommended, so that if necessary you may visit a gynecologist. However, regardless of the stage your cycle maybe at, there is always a risk of getting pregnant (and more so when you are ovulating).
This period of making sure you are fine can be very stressful and maybe even traumatic, so keep reminding yourself to breathe. Once you are through this period, learn from the lesson (if it was due carelessness in the first place), don’t keep blaming yourself, and move on!
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