Unprotected sex (also referred to as condomless sex) is defined as sexual intercourse without a condom.
It also refers to when the condom fails (it tears or slips).
Condomless sex increases the risk of unwanted pregnancy andsexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Elizabeth Fernandez / Getty Images
Elizabeth Fernandez / Getty Images
What Are the Risks of Condomless Sex?
Never rely on the timing of yourmenstrual cycle, sexual position, orwithdrawal method.
Without any key in of contraception, you increase the odds of getting pregnant.
STIs
Sexually transmitted infections are passed from person to person through sexual contact.
Proceed with these steps if you had unprotected sex.
Emergency Contraception
If you had unprotected sex, you have two options to prevent pregnancy.
CertainIUDsinserted within a 120-hour time frame (five days) after condomless sex are considered the most effective.
The emergency contraception pill or themorning-after pillis also an option.
If you dont have a healthcare provider, go to your local Planned Parenthood or urgent care center.
Waiting one week after a missed period will usually give a more accurate result.
you’re free to also get a blood test done about six to eight days afterovulation.
Some tests can tell you if youre pregnant before youve missed a period.
Getting STI Testing
You should get tested within three to five days for STIs.
Pregnancy Facts
Conception can occur anytime during your cycle.
Most of this depends on the timing of your ovulation.
However, if you are not trying to get pregnant, use contraception.
you’ve got the option to still get pregnant because sperm can live up to five days.
However, some may not appear for several months or even years, and some STIs may be asymptomatic.
Ways to stay healthy include safer sex practices, contraception options, and medications available to treat STIs.
If your partner still refuses, this is a red flag of a potentially unhealthy relationship.
Get Regular STI Screening
Anyone who is sexually active should be screened regularly for STIs.
Getting screened for STIs can provide a diagnosis if you are infected and lead to proper treatment.
After unprotected sex, dont assume you haven’t been infected with an STI because you dont have symptoms.
Make it a habit to be screened regularly if you are sexually active.
A Word From Verywell
Unprotected sex comes with risks of unplanned pregnancy or STIs.
However, unprotected sex doesn’t have to be unplanned.
Talk to your healthcare provider about which birth control method could be right for you.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Sexual risk behaviors.
Planned Parenthood.What are the chances of getting pregnant if we’re not using birth control?
World Health Organization.Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
2018;17(2):49. doi:10.4103/aam.aam_32_17
Planned Parenthood.Which kind of emergency contraception should I use?
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.Knowing if you are pregnant.
Planned Parenthood.How long should I wait after unprotected sex to get tested for STDs?
American Pregnancy Association.Can you get pregnant on your period?
Medline Plus.Sexually transmitted diseases.
Center for Young Women’s Health.LGBTQ: contraception.
NHS.Sex activities and risk.
