After unprotected sex, there are a few time-sensitive things to consider. If pregnancy is a concern, emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it is taken - speak to a pharmacist or doctor quickly. If there is a possible HIV exposure, emergency post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can reduce the risk of infection but must be started within 72 hours, so seek urgent medical care or an emergency department without delay.
For STI testing, remember window periods: testing immediately may miss an infection. A clinician can advise when to test for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis based on your exposure date, and may recommend repeat testing later.
Watch for red-flag symptoms such as fever, severe pelvic or testicular pain, unusual discharge, sores or a rash, and seek care if they appear. A licensed doctor or sexual-health service can guide your testing schedule, discuss PEP and contraception, and keep everything confidential.