You had unprotected sex. You panicked and washed immediately because you hoped the sperm would come out.

It will not.

Washing, bathing, urinating or douching cannot remove sperm or prevent pregnancy. Urine leaves through a different opening. Once sperm enters the vagina, washing the outside does not reach it.

Please do not insert soap, disinfectant, salt, herbs, vinegar or medicine. These substances will not prevent pregnancy and may cause irritation or infection.

If the sex happened within the last five days, you may still have time to use emergency contraception.

An emergency-contraception pill should be taken as soon as possible. Some options can be used within five days, but they generally work better when taken earlier.

A copper IUD can also be fitted by a trained clinician within five days. It is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can remain in place for continued pregnancy prevention.

Emergency contraception does not wash out sperm, end an established pregnancy or protect against sexually transmitted infections.

If there may have been exposure to HIV, seek urgent medical care for PEP within 72 hours. Do not wait for symptoms. Ask a clinician when you should test for HIV and other infections.

Your next period may come earlier or later after an emergency-contraception pill. Take a pregnancy test three weeks after the unprotected sex, or follow the advice given by your clinician.

There is no shame in asking for help. What matters now is acting within the available time.

Please share this information. Someone may still have time to act.

#WomensHealth

#HealthyLivingWithDrKetch