"Unexpected turn": what to do if a condom breaks

Among the most popular methods of contraception, besides ineffective interruption of intercourse, the leaders are barrier methods. They reliably protect not only from unwanted pregnancy, but also from the "bouquet" of venereal diseases. But, unfortunately, not all manufacturers monitor the quality of the manufactured goods. Therefore, sometimes there are situations when condoms break. What to do in such a situation?

Why do condoms break

There can be many reasons for a condom break. Among the most common are:

• Poor quality product of the manufacturer.
• Marriage.
• Improper use of a condom (2 pieces, for example, at the same time).
• The use of oil lubrication (it reduces the strength of the condom by almost 90%).
• The condom has expired.
• Inconsistency in the rules for putting on a condom.
• Incorrectly sized condom.

According to statistics, nevertheless, most often a condom can break due to the expiration date or during extreme and too active intercourse.

What to do if a condom breaks

To prevent unwanted pregnancies after a condom breaks, many women douche. It is recommended to use slightly acidic water for this. For example, you can add a couple of drops of lemon juice or vinegar. Too acidic liquid can burn the delicate mucous tissue in the vagina, so this is not worth the risk. In addition, there are special chemicals that will not harm a woman's health. But you need to use them on time, since the effect of using them in a day or two will definitely not be there.

Modern medicine does not stand still. There are special spermicidal drugs that slow down the movement of sperm and prevent them from reaching their "target". These drugs are in the form of suppositories, vaginal tablets, foams of different structures, liquids, etc.

If there is a risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, you urgently need to contact a gynecologist, since you can prevent the development of infections, etc., only for several hours after intercourse.

Emergency contraception

Before choosing an appropriate method of emergency contraception, it is recommended to assess the risk of a possible pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease in a sound manner. For example, if a condom breaks before ejaculation, the risk of getting pregnant is low. There are also "safe" days (5 days before and after menstruation). Although this method of contraception can hardly be called safe, if the condom breaks before the end of intercourse, the risk of conceiving a child is practically zero.

The use of spermicidal condoms also plays a role. But they only kill sperm, but do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

If, nevertheless, the "accident" happened at the most inopportune moment, special medications can be used for emergency contraception. Oral contraceptives should be taken within the first 24 hours after the situation. Of course, it is advisable to do this under the supervision of a gynecologist. It is not recommended to take this kind of hormonal drugs more often than twice a year. And until the age of 18, they are generally contraindicated.

It's okay to talk to an experienced professional who can provide safe and effective advice. Therefore, a visit to a gynecologist in such situations is simply necessary, because taking pills or using alternative methods of emergency contraception can harm your health.