Sometimes things just don’t go to plan
There are several reasons as to why a condom can fail to prevent pregnancy such as:
- Not using it correctly
- Not using it everytime you have sex
- It breaks during sex
- Manufacturing error
- An expired condom
There are still steps that you can take to reduce the risk of becoming pregnant if you find a tear in the condom.
What next?
Emergency Contraceptive Pill
Often called 'the morning after pill’ it is a pill that is designed to prevent pregnancy. There are 2 types of emergency contraceptive pill both of which can be purchased direct from a pharmacy without a prescription.
The 3 day Pill
The 3-day emergency contraceptive pill contains the hormone progestogen. It works by preventing or delaying your body from ovulating or releasing an egg, thereby preventing an egg and sperm fertilising.
It should be taken as soon as possible and within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex. It is important to remember that the sooner you take it the better it will work.
The 5 day Pill
The 5-day emergency contraceptive pill contains ulipristal. It works by preventing or delaying your body from ovulating or releasing an egg, thereby preventing an egg and sperm fertilising.
It should be taken as soon as possible and within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex. It is important to remember that the sooner you take it the better it will work.
Emergency Contraception: Copper Coil
The copper coil (IUD) is a hormone-free option that can also be used as a long-acting contraception. If fitted within 5 days after the condom broke, it should prevent pregnancy and can be kept for contraception for up to 10 years depending on the IUD type.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) test
Condoms are designed to prevent pregnancy and protect against STIs, so in the event of a broken condom it's a good idea for you and your partner to get tested.
ALTERNATIVE CONTRACEPTION METHODS
If your condom breaking has got you thinking about other methods of contraception, these are worth considering:
THE HORMONAL COIL
The Hormonal Coil is a small, soft T-shaped plastic frame that releases low levels of a progestogen hormone for up to 3 - 5 years. It is given with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse.
THE COPPER COIL
The Copper Coil is a small, T-shaped plastic frame that has a copper wire. It is available with a prescription and placed in your womb by a doctor or nurse, where it prevents pregnancy for up to 5 - 10 years.
THE CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT
A small, flexible silicone rod that releases hormones for up to 3 years. It is given with a prescription and placed under the skin of your upper arm by a doctor or nurse.
THE CONTRACEPTIVE INJECTION
An injection containing a hormone that is given with a prescription and administered by a doctor or nurse every 12-13 weeks.
NEED ADVICE? SPEAK TO YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL
Seek out an appointment with your doctor or nurse for further support that meets your needs.
