What to Do If a Condom Breaks During Sex: Immediate Steps and Next Actions

• Stop and Check: As soon as you notice the condom has broken, stop having sex. Take a moment to think about what happened and what you need to do next. This helps you stay calm and make good choices.

• Remove and Throw Away the Condom: Carefully take off the broken condom and throw it in the trash—not the toilet, since that can clog pipes.

• Wash Up: Both people should gently wash their private areas with warm water and mild soap. This doesn’t stop pregnancy or STIs, but it helps with basic hygiene. Don’t use harsh soaps or douches, as these can cause irritation or infection.

If you are worried about pregnancy, act fast. Emergency contraception (EC) can help prevent pregnancy after a condom breaks.

• Morning-After Pills:

  • Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step): You can buy this at a pharmacy without a prescription. It works best if you take it within 24 hours, but it can still work up to 72 hours after sex.

  • Ulipristal Acetate (EllaOne): This pill needs a prescription. It works up to five days after sex and is often more effective, especially if it’s been a few days.

• Copper IUD: A doctor can put in a copper IUD up to five days after sex. This is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy after a condom breaks. It also works as long-term birth control.

Tips:

• Use emergency contraception as soon as possible for the best results.

• If you’re not sure which option is best, ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

• In many places, you can get morning-after pills from a pharmacy or health clinic without a prescription.

If a condom breaks, you might be exposed to STIs. Here’s what to do:

• Get Medical Help for STI Prevention: If you’re worried about HIV, a doctor can give you medicine called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). You need to start PEP within 72 hours, and you take it for 28 days. The sooner you start, the better it works.

• Schedule an STI Test: Even if you don’t need PEP, it’s important to get tested for STIs. Some STIs don’t cause symptoms right away. Most people should get tested 1-2 weeks after the condom broke. Your doctor might suggest more tests later.

Tips:

• Don’t have sex again until you and your partner have been tested and, if needed, treated.

• Talk to your partner about what happened and encourage them to get tested too.

Watch for Symptoms

After you take these steps, watch for any signs of infection, like itching, unusual discharge, or pain when you pee. If you notice anything strange, see a doctor right away.

Preventing future condom breakage can minimise the stress of repeated incidents and enhance confidence in safe sex practices. Here are some strategies to help reduce the likelihood of future condom failures:

• Check the Expiration Date: Don’t use condoms that are expired.

• Store Properly: Keep condoms in a cool, dry place. Don’t keep them in your wallet or car for a long time.

• Use the Right Size: Make sure the condom fits well—not too tight or too loose.

• Put It On Correctly: Leave a little space at the tip and pinch out any air before rolling it down.

• Use Lubrication: Use water-based or silicone-based lube to prevent breakage. Don’t use oil-based products with latex condoms.

Talk With Your Partner

It’s important to be honest and open with your partner about what happened. This helps you both stay safe and make good choices in the future.

If a condom breaks, don’t panic. By acting quickly and following these steps, you can protect your health and feel more in control of the situation.