Worrying after unprotected sex is natural. Stay calm: there are options to prevent pregnancy, and for infections the key is testing at the right time.
Emergency contraception options
According to the NHS there are two routes: the copper coil (intrauterine device, IUD) and the "morning after" pill.
- Levonorgestrel pill: within 3 days (72 hours) of sex.
- Ulipristal acetate pill: within 5 days (120 hours).
- Copper IUD: within 5 days (120 hours); it is the most effective emergency method and can stay in place as regular contraception for 5 to 10 years.
The general rule: the sooner you use it, the more effective it usually is. Depending on your country, pills are available from pharmacies, GPs or sexual health clinics; check with a pharmacist or doctor which option suits you.
When is an STI test reliable?
The NHS notes that STIs can take up to 7 weeks after unprotected sex to show up on a test.