What to Do After Unprotected Sex: A Step-by-Step Health Guide for Filipinos
Unprotected sex can mean no contraception was used, a condom broke or slipped, pills were missed, withdrawal failed, or an assault occurred. It can create two separate concerns: pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The actions below are time-sensitive, so start with what happened and how many hours have passed.
Step 1: Check for immediate danger or injury
Go to an emergency department if there is severe bleeding, intense abdominal or pelvic pain, fainting, serious injury, or concern that you were drugged. After sexual assault, you can seek care even if you are unsure whether you want to report to police. Medical services may address injuries, pregnancy prevention, HIV PEP, STI prevention or testing, and emotional support.
Step 2: Consider emergency contraception as soon as possible
Emergency contraception works before pregnancy is established, mainly by preventing or delaying ovulation. It is not an abortion pill and does not end an existing pregnancy. The World Health Organization advises using emergency contraception within five days of unprotected sex, with better effectiveness the sooner it is used.
- Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg: commonly used as soon as possible, especially within the first 72 hours.
- Ulipristal acetate 30 mg: can be used up to 120 hours and is generally more effective than levonorgestrel later in the five-day window.
- Copper IUD: when inserted by a trained provider within the recommended window, it is the most effective emergency contraceptive and can remain as ongoing birth control.
Emergency contraceptive pills do not protect you from pregnancy if you have unprotected sex again later in the cycle. They also do not prevent STIs.
For readers comparing locally available product information, see Victoria OneStep levonorgestrel 1.5 mg, Mifestad 10 product information, and EllaOne ulipristal acetate 30 mg. Check the active ingredient carefully and ask a qualified pharmacist or clinician if you are unsure which option is medically appropriate. Availability can change.
Step 3: Assess possible HIV exposure
PEP is a course of HIV medicine used after a possible exposure. It must be started as soon as possible and no later than 72 hours. Do not wait for symptoms. Go to a hospital, HIV treatment hub, social hygiene clinic, or qualified sexual health service and explain when the exposure occurred.
Step 4: Plan STI testing
STI tests have different window periods. Testing immediately may establish a baseline, but some infections will not be detectable yet and may require repeat testing. A clinician can advise the right timing for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and hepatitis tests based on the type of exposure.
You can use the HIVTest.ph testing-center locator or contact LoveYourself for free and confidential HIV testing options. You may also ask your city health office or local social hygiene clinic. Confirm which STI tests are free or available before visiting.
Step 5: Know when to take a pregnancy test
Home pregnancy tests are most reliable from the first day of a missed period. If you do not know when your period is due, test at least 21 days after the unprotected sex. If the result is negative but your period still does not come, repeat the test after several days or consult a clinician.
Step 6: Seek urgent care for warning signs
Severe one-sided pelvic pain, shoulder-tip pain, fainting, dizziness, or heavy bleeding with a positive or possible pregnancy can be signs of ectopic pregnancy and need emergency assessment.
What not to do
- Do not douche; it does not prevent pregnancy or infection.
- Do not take random doses of pills without confirming the active ingredients and correct regimen.
- Do not use antibiotics “just in case” without medical advice.
- Do not assume absence of symptoms means absence of an STI.
Bottom line: Act quickly. Emergency contraception can address pregnancy risk, PEP can address a qualifying HIV exposure within 72 hours, and properly timed testing can address STIs and pregnancy.
Sources
Medical note: This article provides general education. Emergency contraception, PEP, testing, and care after assault should be discussed with qualified healthcare professionals whenever possible.