What Should You Do After Unprotected Sex?

Unprotected sex can lead to various health concerns, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy. It is crucial to know what to do after unprotected sex in order to minimize these risks. This article will discuss the steps to take following unprotected sex, including getting tested for STIs and considering emergency contraception.

Get Tested for Sexually Transmitted Infections

Getting tested for STIs is an essential step after unprotected sex. Even if you and your partner have no visible symptoms, infections can still be transmitted. Some STIs—such as chlamydia and gonorrhea—can be detected within days of exposure. However, others like HIV and syphilis may require a longer waiting period before testing. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate time for testing.

Consider Emergency Contraception

If you are not trying to conceive and have had unprotected sex, emergency contraception may be an option to prevent pregnancy. There are various types of emergency contraception, such as the morning-after pill and the copper intrauterine device (IUD). The sooner you take emergency contraception, the more effective it is, so it is crucial to act quickly.

How Long After Unprotected Sex Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?

One of the primary concerns following unprotected sex is the possibility of pregnancy. You may wonder how long after unprotected sex pregnancy test results can be reliable. In most cases, it is best to wait at least two weeks after the sexual encounter before taking a home pregnancy test. This allows enough time for the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced by the developing placenta, to be detectable in your system. For the most accurate results, test first thing in the morning when hCG levels are highest.

Seek Medical Advice

If you are concerned about your health after having unprotected sex, it is important to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can help you understand the risks and guide you through the appropriate steps to take. 

Commit to Practicing Safe Sex

After experiencing unprotected sex, it is also important to make a commitment to practicing safe sex in the future. This can ensure that you remain safe and healthy in the future. By following these steps, you can minimize the risks associated with unprotected sex and take control of your sexual health.

At Community Care Resources of Florida (CCRSFL), we are dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care to those in our community by providing excellent medical services, therapy, and outreach to individuals affected by sexually transmitted diseases, HIV, hepatitis C, and/or substance abuse. We strive to deliver healthcare with compassion and affordability to all.

Since our foundation, our goal has been to serve our Altamonte Springs, Hallandale Beach, and Haines City communities by providing access to care and resources that help our patients become healthier through safer practices with their partners. We have qualified technicians available to serve you. If you’re interested in our services, you can book an appointment on our website or call us at 1(877) 287-2520!

Contact any of our offices if you need testing and treatment.

Altamonte:
106 Boston Avenue Suite 204
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701

Haines City:
280 Patterson Road, Suite 3
Haines City, FL 33844

Hallandale Beach:
1008 West Hallandale Beach Boulevard
Hallandale Beach, FL 33009

Email: ADMIN@CCRSFL.COM