Condom break during vaginal intercourse

[justme44]

During vaginal intercourse, the condom broke while I was thrusting my penis into her vagina. We stopped immediately. It happened just under 2 hours ago. I read in a previous post that in such a case PEP is not recommended due to the health risks of PEP. I previously took PEP and only experienced discomfort the first 4 days.

First question: If the side effects are limited, do you suggest I take PEP? Or is the risk really low enough not to be bothered?

I am disappointed that I did not insist on using better quality condoms (I have Durex Extra Safe at my place). First break I have ever experienced, not sure of condom expiry date, but the brand was Choice (South African, I believe mainly manufactured in China).

Second question: Can HIV penetrate through poorly manufactured condoms? Or is the risk only when the condoms break? We often use Choice condoms here in SA and it is not the best quality.

[jkinatl2]

Hello!

Several questions. Important stuff first.

I do not think a broken condom is sufficient to warrant PEP. I honestly say this more because of the cost of the medication and the anxiety that adding an extra month to the testing window provides. Most (not all) currently prescribed PEP is far safer than even five years ago in terms of toxicity and side effects. This is in part because HIV medications in general are safer and less toxic than they used to be.

That having been said, some places still prescribe an AZT-based PEP combo, or one with Kaletra. Both of these can cause distressing (though usually temporary) side effects. My main concern however is cost and anxiety.

Your risk was a low level one. In the ten plus years I have been on this forum doing risk assessment, I have NEVER seen an insertive partner test positive after a condom break, with or without PEP. It's an insanely low risk. However, low risk =/= no risk. I would still advise getting tested at six weeks and again at three months to be certain.

The short answer to your second question is that HIV cannot infect through FDA - approved condoms. They are double-dipped at opposing 45 degree angles for safety. This tends to prevent non-catastrophic breakage (tears and the like). I can give you a ridiculously complicated answer involving microns and viable viral particles and the like, but no. You will notget HIV through an intact condom if used correctly.

I am sure you remember to pinch the tip as you are putting it on to keep the reservoir empty and not full of air. I am sure you are using the correct lube. I am sure that when finished, you hold it by the base when withdrawing so it doesn't slide off into your partner.

I can't speak for condoms produced in places other than the US, of course, besides suggesting you go with brands you know. Novelty condoms of course are not subject to FDA scrutiny and are usually not douple dipped.

Regardless, I fully expect you to come through this OK. regardless of PEP (which I think unnecessary but it is totally your call).

[justme44]

Thanks for the quick response. I will get myself tested at the appropriate times.

[Jeff G]

Thanks for the quick response. I will get myself tested at the appropriate times.

JK gave you some sound advice . Its an unfortunate thing that happened but you will come out of this ok .