So The Condom Broke. Now What?

Firstly you’re probably feeling all sorts of emotions about pregnancy, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) including HIV.

It’s okay. Breathe.

There are steps to take that will help.

1. Here’s what you need to do within 72 hours, but the sooner you get help the better.
2. Go to a clinic or doctor and tell them that the condom broke.
3. Firstly, you will be tested for HIV, which comes with a counseling session given before and after testing. If your results are negative you will get Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
4. These are pills given to reduce the risk of getting infected with HIV. PEP is taken twice a day for 28 days. You need to take the treatment as instructed for it to work — so don’t skip your meds. It’s recommended that you get tested again after completing the PEP.
5. HIV doesn’t often show up for the first three months of infection.
6. You also have to consider other STIs. It takes 1 to 2 weeks before the signs of infection show. So, you will need to go back to the clinic to get tested, and if you test positive for an STI, the doctor or nurse will be able to advise you what treatment you need.
7. Go to the clinic or doctor or a pharmacist as soon as possible, let them know the condom broke and that there's a chance you are pregnant. You have a few options which the nurse, pharmacist or doctor can advise.

If you need to find a hospital or clinic near you, Wazzii has partnered with some healthcare providers to give you the help you need. Dial *709# or chat with Wazzii on WhatsApp.