What to do if couples fail to use contraception

Contraceptive failure is common, so it is important to take timely measures to solve the problem. Women can flush their external genitalia or take emergency contraceptive pills for 72 hours, but they must consult a professional doctor to improve the effectiveness of contraception.

Step 1: Both partners should wash their genitals immediately

Women should wash their genitals with mild soap and running water to remove sperm or bacteria before they enter the body. Be careful not to scrub too hard, otherwise it will destroy the growth environment of beneficial bacteria in the vagina and increase the chance of infectious diseases.

Step 2: Take emergency contraception pills

When taken within 72 hours of an accident, it has an 89% success rate in preventing an unplanned pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills are sold at pharmacies, or you can go directly to the hospital to consult a doctor and take them according to the instructions or doctor's orders.

Step 3: Get tested for STDs

Get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea within a week of the accident, and repeat the test within three months to prevent latent infection. Also ask for testing for skin-to-skin type transmitted diseases, such as herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV). Of course, if you are sure your partner does not have any disease and has no other sexual partners, this step can be omitted. If you have any doubts, testing is still necessary.