What to do after sex without a condom - Actions you can take within 72 hours using DoxyPEP/PEP | Mona Aoyama Clinic
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"I had sex without a condom," "the condom broke," "I can't sleep from anxiety afterwards"—these situations can happen to anyone.
The important thing is to not panic, and to check and act on each measure you can take within 72 hours. After sexual intercourse, using HIV and STD prevention medication at the appropriate time can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
In this article, a doctor from Mona Aoyama Clinic will clearly explain what to do and in what order after unprotected sex, presented chronologically.
First, confirm – actions vary depending on what you're concerned about
| Concern | Corresponding medication/measure | Time limit |
|---|---|---|
| Concerned about HIV infection | PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV) | Start within 72 hours of sexual intercourse, continue for 28 days |
| Concerned about Chlamydia, Syphilis, Gonorrhea | Doxy-PEP | Take once within 72 hours of sexual intercourse |
| Concerned about pregnancy | Emergency contraceptive pill | Within 72 hours of sexual intercourse (the sooner, the more effective) |
| Concerned about Hepatitis B (not vaccinated) | Hepatitis B immunoglobulin + vaccine | Ideally within 24 hours of sexual intercourse |
⏱️ All measures have a time limit of "within 72 hours (3 days)." Act as soon as you realize. Our clinic offers 24-hour reception and same-day shipping.
Post-sexual intercourse action flow – chronological check
- Calm down and assess the situationCheck how much time has passed since sexual intercourse. If it's within 72 hours, preventive medication can be used.
- Determine if there is an HIV riskIf the partner's HIV status is unknown or positive, PEP is necessary. PEP is a different medication from Doxy-PEP and must be taken daily for 28 days.
- Take Doxy-PEP (STD prevention)If concerned about Chlamydia, Syphilis, or Gonorrhea, take Doxycycline 200mg once. As soon as possible, within 72 hours.
- If necessary, also get PEP prescribed (HIV prevention)If there is an HIV risk, PEP can be prescribed in parallel with Doxy-PEP. Our clinic handles both online.
- Get tested for STDs 2-4 weeks laterEven if you take Doxy-PEP, there's a non-zero possibility of infection. Confirm with a test.
- Get tested for HIV 4-6 weeks laterIf PEP was used, testing 4-6 weeks after completing the course is recommended.
Precautions when taking Doxy-PEP (emergency)
- Take it as quickly as possible—it's most effective within 24 hours.
- Ideally, take it after a meal, but in an emergency, it's okay to take it on an empty stomach (some nausea may occur but is acceptable).
- Do not take with milk or antacids (absorption decreases).
- Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking.
- Do not take after 72 hours (effectiveness cannot be expected).
If you "know nothing about your partner"
If your partner's HIV status or the presence of STDs is unknown, it is safest to act by assuming the worst-case scenario. If it was sexual intercourse with HIV risk (e.g., condomless anal sex), consider both PEP and Doxy-PEP.
⚠️ The riskiest action is to let 72 hours pass with an optimistic "it'll probably be fine" attitude. If you're hesitating, use that time to consult with an online clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our clinic offers a late-night immediate delivery option (10 PM - 9 AM). Please consult us even if you realize it late at night. Also, by keeping Doxy-PEP at home in advance, you can respond immediately in such emergencies.
Yes, it is. Doxy-PEP and PEP are different medications and can be used simultaneously. If you are concerned about both HIV and STDs, we recommend starting both on the same day.
If you develop STD symptoms (urethral discharge, genital ulcers, rash, etc.) after taking Doxy-PEP, the preventive effect may not have been sufficient. Get tested for STDs and start treatment immediately.
Yes, you can. Our clinic offers bulk purchase plans for 10, 20, and 30 doses. We recommend keeping it on hand in advance so you can respond immediately in an emergency.
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