Ask Oz June 2022: Your Questions Answered

Ask Oz June 2022. Time flies, keep those questions rolling in. This month’s blog gets into contraception and practising safe sex.

Ask Oz June 2022

Hey Oz, I practice safe sex by using a condom.  What should I do if the condom breaks?  What should I have prepared in case of this happening?

A broken condom can lead to unintended pregnancy and/or the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Chances of a condom breaking are small.  But if you’re in that situation, here’s what you should do:

1. Stop immediately

If the condom breaks during sex, stop immediately. This will help minimize the risk of semen and bodily fluids coming in contact with your partner’s genitals.

2. Check for any visible damage

Take a moment to visually assess the condom for any visible damage. If there’s a tear or a hole in the condoms, it’s likely that sperm may have leaked out.

3. Consider emergency contraception

Even if you’re using a contraceptive method like the pill or IUD, it’s always a good idea to consider emergency contraception within 72 hours of a condom breaking. This can help reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

4. Get tested for STIs

If you’re not already regularly tested for STIs, it’s important to get tested after a condom break. This is especially true if you or your partner have had multiple sexual partners or engage in high-risk sexual behavior.

Our Condom Has Broken – Now What? 

Now, if you haven’t prepared for a condom breaking, here’s what you should do.

1. Don’t panic

While a broken condom can be concerning, it’s important not to panic. Take a deep breath, and try to stay calm.

2. Assess your options

Consider your options for emergency contraception or STI testing. Depending on where you are, you may be able to purchase emergency contraception over-the-counter at a pharmacy or obtain testing at a clinic.

3. Plan for the future

Use this experience as an opportunity to plan for the future.

Keep emergency contraception on hand.  Consider alternative forms of birth control such as the pill or IUD.  While a broken condom can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your partner.

Hey Oz.  I am on the pill and take it every day around the same time.  Does it make a difference what time of day I take it?

When it comes to taking birth control pills, timing is key. Taking the pill at the same time every day is important for ensuring its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.

• Best time to take the pill

Whatever time works best for you and your schedule.   Some women prefer to take it in the morning with breakfast.  Others find it easier to remember to take it at night before bed.  Choose a time that you can stick to consistently.

• Consistency is key

Birth control pills work by suppressing ovulation. Thich means that if you miss a pill or take it at a different time than usual, you may be at risk of becoming pregnant.  If you do miss a pill,  follow the instructions on your pill packet or talk to your healthcare provider about what to do next.

• A Missed Pill

Typically, if you miss one pill and remember within 24 hours, take the missed pill as soon as possible.  Continue taking the rest of your pills at your regular time. If you miss two pills in a row, take two pills as soon as possible and two more pills the next day.

You may need to use additional contraception for the next seven days to ensure protection against pregnancy.

• Some Medications can Interfere with Effectiveness

It’s worth noting that certain medications and supplements can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. If you’re taking any other medications or supplements, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any potential interactions.

It may not matter what time of day you take the pill as long as it’s consistent. Missing pills can put you at risk of pregnancy. Always follow the instructions on your pill packet or talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.

Have a read of our Ask Oz May 2022 blog.  It addresses safe oral sex and how to put a condom on.