My Condom Broke in Penang… What Do I Do Now?!

Whether you're in George Town, Batu Ferringhi, or anywhere in Penang — first things first:

Don’t panic.
Condom slips and breaks do happen. What matters most is what you do next.

Let’s walk through it calmly and clearly.

Why Do Condoms Break?

There’s usually a reason (and it’s more common than you think):

• Expired condoms
• Stored somewhere hot (wallets, cars, beach bags)
• Poor quality condoms
• Vigorous or prolonged sex
• Not enough lubrication
• Opening the wrapper with teeth or sharp objects
• Using two condoms at once (more friction = more tearing)
• Reusing a condom (please don’t)

No judgment — just useful knowledge for next time.

Step 1: Clean Up — Gently

For men:
Wash the genital area gently with warm water.

For women:
Do NOT wash inside the vagina or use soap, antiseptics, or detergents. These can irritate the vaginal lining and increase infection risk.

Do not douche.
This can push sperm and bacteria further inside.

If you're unsure what to do next — contact our clinic immediately for advice.

Step 2: What Should I Be Concerned About?

Let’s break it down into three important areas:

1. HIV — Time Matters

Stay calm and consider your partner’s risk factors:

• History of intravenous drug use
• Multiple sexual partners
• Engaging sex workers
• Men who have sex with men

Women are biologically at higher risk of acquiring HIV, especially if ejaculation occurred before the condom broke.

If you think the exposure is high risk:

• You have up to 72 hours to start HIV Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
  PEP works best if started within the first 24 hours and must be started within 72 hours.
• PEP can significantly reduce your risk of getting HIV — but timing is critical.
• If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to come in and let us assess your risk properly.

2. Other STDs (STIs)

After a condom break, the risk of sexually transmitted infections increases.

Many STDs do not show symptoms early on — including:

• Gonorrhea
• Chlamydia
• Syphilis

You or your partner may not even know you have one. That’s why both partners should consider proper screening.

What About “Doxy PEP”?

• “Doxy PEP” refers to taking doxycycline after potential exposure to reduce the risk of certain bacterial STIs like syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
• It must be started within 72 hours of exposure, and it’s not suitable for everyone.
  A doctor will assess whether it’s appropriate based on your individual risk and health profile.
• Prompt medical evaluation is essential for proper treatment.

3. Pregnancy

If pregnancy is a concern: Emergency contraception works best within 48 hours.

See a doctor as soon as possible to discuss the morning-after pill.

And again — no douching.