I think that Spermicide might be the best option. You have to leave it in for 6 hours as far as I am aware, although it can be a bit irritating for down there. There is one called Nonoxyl-9 which used to be impregnated in a lot of condoms and their lube but it's had bad press as the theory is that if down there is more irritated, there is a higher chance of you catching a STD of some sort due to the membrane being torn.
The best option for what?
If you've had a condom split and you're concerned about pregnancy but not infection, you could use spermicide in addition to the morning after pill. This isn't a situation that you'd find yourself in while working though, is it?
If you've had a condom split and you're concerned about infection, for god's sake don't go putting irritants in your vagina! If you're also worried about pregnancy, take the morning after pill and avoid spermicides.
Totally agree Anika, sorry didn't make it very clear
Just to clarify
steer clear of spermacide as it is an irritant, and obviously you don't know your clients' sexual history so STIs are a big concern. Need to read up on the latest stuff about what spermicide they use with caps, because I know it has changed in the last 6-12 months. Will ask mum (FP practitioner). Amy is right- if you don't need Levonelle and there are no immediate concerns just book a standard appointment at the clinic.
In all pregnancy scare cases I book an emergency appointment at a GUM/FP clinic (mainly because I'm paranoid about these things) which you should do if you need the morning after pill- if you really can't get an appointment many pharmacies now give it to you for free in exchange for a brief 5 minute lecture (you also get given free condoms
). A coil can also be implanted and gives you longer than the 72 hours to get an appointment. It is less effective though and you may need to have a few days off work as it can be a bit sore.
As Anika mentioned: If you are really concerned that the client might have something more like HIV, there is such a thing called PEP (post exposure prophylaxis- generally unpleasant side effects from HIV meds ).
I just feel I ought to add that there are issues with the availability of it- a non WG friend tried to get some last week, and they gave her a really hard time, and delayed her getting it. There's a letter here from the CMO of the Uk addressed to health professionals which might be of use:
http://www.pep.chapsonline.org.uk/pep_availability.htmI think there is also something similar available for some of the other nasties but it's late and I'm on a sugar high, so will research it/ask mum in the morning
xxx
