What are the risks of unprotective sex?

Sex is a natural act that can give both partners fun and pleasure. But also, sex or sexual activity can expose you to various risks and unintended pregnancy. This is called unprotected sex. At times it may happen even after taking all precautions, this calls for immediate help from the healthcare provider. 

Understanding unprotected sex

Unprotected sex or unprotected sexual activity means not using any protection or contraception or barrier. It may include condom breakage, forgetting to use a condom, or did not take contraceptive pills. Any contact with part of the body that may be infectious can make you vulnerable to the risks of unprotected sex. 

This carelessness can expose both you and your partner to unwanted pregnancy and some sexually transmitted infections. Fortunately, you can manage the consequence of unprotected sex when immediate required treatment is taken. If unwanted pregnancy bothers you, you must act within 72 hours.

Understanding safe sex or protective sex

When the partners do not come in contact with each other’s body fluids such as blood, vaginal secretion, or semen it is called protective or safe sex.

Let us learn the risks associated with unprotected sex and their impact on health.

Unprotected sexual activity is found to be common in youngsters and this adversely affects their health. The most common risks of unprotected sex are –

• Sexually transmitted infections and diseases
• HIV
• Unwanted pregnancy
• Mental health problems

There are many reported cases of sexually transmitted infections, especially in young adults.

1. Sexually transmitted infections 

Sexually transmitted infections such as herpes, syphilis, or gonorrhea can increase the risk of HIV. There are many different bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections that are passed on through unprotected sex. Some of the most common sexually transmitted infections are –

Gonorrhea  

It is a bacterial infection that may not cause any symptoms. The infection can occur in both males and females. The symptoms appear different in men and women. 

In men, it may cause painful urination, pain or swelling in the testicles, and pus-like discharge from the penis. In women, it may cause pain in the abdomen, painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, and bleeding from the vagina. 

Gonorrheal infection can also affect other body parts such as the throat, joints, eyes, and rectum. 

Syphilis 

It is a bacterial infection that is commonly spread through sexual contact. It can cause severe pain in the genitals, lips, mouth, or anus. If not managed on time it can cause a problem in the entire body and also increases the risk of HIV infection.

HIV

Unprotective sex is the most common cause of HIV in the world. 

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The immune system of the body is compromised. HIV does not have any cure but when diagnosed on time it can be managed. The symptoms of HIV and AIDS differ with the phase of infection. 

Chlamydia

People infected with chlamydia may not have any signs or symptoms. It may show mild symptoms which can be often overlooked. Chlamydia infection can cause pain while passing urine, penis discharge in men, pain in testicles, pain during sexual intercourse in women, vaginal discharge in women, etc. 

Genital warts 

It is the most common STI. Signs and symptoms include swelling in genitals, bleeding during sexual intercourse, several warts with cauliflower shape, etc. These warts always spread through sexual contact. 

Genital herpes

The person may not know if one is having genital herpes as the sign and symptoms are mild. It may cause pain or itching in the genitals, small red bumps, etc.

Most sexually transmitted infections may not show immediate symptoms. You remain unaware of the infection until the symptoms appear. So, using protection during sexual intercourse is the only way to keep yourself safe. 

Some other ways to reduce the risks of unprotective sex include – 

• Do not get along with multiple partners
• It can increase the chances of contracting sexually transmitted infections. It is always advised.
• Use barrier methods such as condoms and also get yourself screened for STI (sexually transmitted infection) at regular intervals. 
• Do not take any drugs or alcohol before sex, this can weaken your decision.
• Have clear communication with your partner.
• Do not get indulged in improper sexual activity.

Various contraceptive measures can prevent unwanted pregnancy and other sexual problems. Some of the options for barrier methods include intrauterine devices, hormonal contraception, male and female condoms, contraceptive sponge, etc.

Which barrier method is suitable for you depends on the individual’s needs. A healthcare provider can help you with the barrier methods you can use to prevent the risks of unprotective sex. 

What to do if you had unprotected sex?

The female should get her pregnancy test. Taking contraceptive pills as early as possible can help manage unintended pregnancy. If you are concerned about any other risks, visit your healthcare provider. Most the sexually transmitted infections can be treated with medications and also can be prevented from getting worse.

Conclusion

You never know your one-time pleasure of unprotected sex can cost you serious health conditions. The risks of unprotective sex i.e mainly sexually transmitted infections is a public health concern. As STIs are highly prevalent and can cause serious complications which may or may not be treatable.