What to Do When the Condom Breaks

It happens more often than you think: you're in the moment, things are going well… and then you realize the condom broke. Whether it slipped, tore, or just wasn’t on right, here’s what to do.  

1. Pause and Assess 

Stop having sex as soon as you think the condom is broken. Check the condom to see if it's torn, completely off, or leaking. If you only realize after sex, examine it then. Look for visible signs of damage and whether semen may have escaped. 

2. Prevent Pregnancy with Emergency Contraception (EC) 

If you’re able to get pregnant (or get someone pregnant) and you’re not using another birth control method, emergency contraception is your next move. Joely Pritzker, MS, FNP-C, and Senior Director of Health Care at Power to Decide, says, “There are two types of emergency contraception—pills and IUDs. Pills work best if you take them as soon as possible after the condom fails, but you can take them up to 5 days after. Some pills you can get over the counter without a prescription. IUDs work the best to prevent pregnancy after a condom breaks or slips—but you need to get into a clinic to have one placed within 5 days.”  

3. Think About STI Protection 

Condoms prevent pregnancy AND they’re also one of the best defenses against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If a condom breaks during sex, and you’re not in a monogamous relationship or aren’t sure of your partner’s status, consider getting tested about 2 weeks after the condom breaks. Waiting may be stressful, but it’s important to ensure enough time has passed that the test is fully accurate. 

Depending on the situation, your provider may recommend other treatments. “In some situations, it might make sense for someone to take post-exposure prophylaxis—this just means taking medicine right after unprotected sex to prevent an infection, usually within 72 hours,” Pritzker says. “There are medications available to prevent HIV and other STIs.” 

4. Consider a Different Birth Control Method 

If condom mishaps are happening more often than you want them to, you can always explore birth control options that don't rely on timing or technique. Methods like the IUD, implant, shot, patch, ring, or pill can offer longer-lasting, more reliable protection. And they’re all available for free or at a low-cost at your nearest The Right Time health center. 

Condoms are still a great option for STI prevention, and many people use them along with another method (called dual protection). 

5. Remember: You’re Not Alone 

Condom breaks are common! What matters is what you do next—and you’re already taking the right steps by learning more. 

Need help figuring out your options? Use The Right Time’s provider locator to find a nearby clinic that offers judgment-free, expert support. Missouri residents can also request a free emergency contraception kit containing over-the-counter EC from Missouri Family Health Council by clicking here.