Took your first dose of doxycycline and think you’re good to go? Not so fast. Starting treatment doesn’t mean the infection is gone, and resuming sex too soon could lead to reinfection for you and your partner.
So, how long should you actually wait before having sex again? And what happens if you miss a dose or experience side effects mid-treatment? In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to stay safe and ensure your treatment works as intended.
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How Does Doxycycline Work?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that stops harmful bacteria from growing and multiplying. It interferes with the bacteria's ability to produce essential proteins they need to survive.
Without these proteins, the bacteria can't reproduce, spread, or maintain their structure, making it easier for your immune system to eliminate the infection.
Doxycycline targets a wide range of bacterial infections, including those that cause STIs like chlamydia and syphilis. It doesn’t kill the bacteria instantly, but prevents it from getting stronger or spreading.
It’s important to complete the full course of treatment before having intercourse again to make sure all bacteria is removed from your body.
When Is It Safe to Have Sex After Taking Doxycycline?
The timing varies depending on the individual and their medical history, so it's best to speak with your primary care physician. Generally, you should not be sexually active while taking doxycycline.
It's safe to have sex after completing the full course of doxycycline. However, doxycycline doesn't protect against all STIs, so it's smart to wait until you've had a follow-up test with your physician, just to be safe.
What to Do if You Miss A Dose
Check in with your prescriber if you miss a dose or experience side effects like vomiting. If you miss a dose and it's been less than 72 hours since exposure, you can still take it.
If it's been more than 72 hours, do not double dose; just wait for your next scheduled dose. This may extend your treatment period by an additional day.
Can You Have Sex with Condoms During Treatment?
No, even with condom use, there's still a risk of transmission while on doxycycline. The bacteria may still be in your system.
What About Having Sex With a Regular Partner?
Both you and your partner should abstain from sexual activity during treatment. If you complete the treatment without missing any doses, wait at least 7 days.
If you've missed a dose, wait an additional day. This applies to all sexual relationships, including long-term partners and casual encounters.
What to Avoid During Doxycycline Treatment
While you're taking doxycycline, certain habits and substances can interfere with the medication’s effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's advice, but in general, avoid the following:
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
Antacids (especially those with calcium, magnesium, or aluminum)
Excessive sun exposure
Alcohol
How To Prevent Reinfection
Reinfection can undo your progress and put your health (and your partner’s health) at risk. To stay protected, follow these guidelines:
Avoid sex until both you and your partner have completed treatment.
Make sure your partner gets tested and treated.
Use condoms consistently and correctly after treatment.
Get tested again after three months to confirm both of you are negative.
Limit new sexual partners during and shortly after treatment.
When to Call Your Doctor
While doxycycline is generally well-tolerated, it's important to know when to seek medical advice. Contact your doctor if you experience:
Persistent symptoms that don’t improve or return after completing treatment
Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing
Signs of complications, including severe diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
Any unexpected changes or concerns during treatment
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FAQs
What is B Brand?
B Brand is a telehealth company focused on delivering premium quality sexual health products, paired with education and resources to help people make informed decisions. We are your one-stop destination for all your intimate health needs.
How do B Brand consultations work?
To complete a B Brand consultation, all you need to do is answer our quick online medical questions. Your answers are then reviewed by our US medical team, who will decide if you are eligible for treatment, and which medication is best for you.
What is doxy-PEP?
Doxy-PEP means taking the antibiotic doxycycline after sex, to prevent getting an STI. It is like a morning-after pill but for STIs. Taking doxy-PEP reduces your chance of acquiring syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia by about two-thirds.
When should I take doxy-PEP?
Two 100 mg pills of doxycycline should be taken ideally within 24 hours but no later than 72 hours after condomless sex. Condomless sex means oral, anal or vaginal/front-hole sex where a condom isn’t used for the entire time.
What about when I have sex again?
If you have sex again within 24 hours of taking doxycycline, take another dose 24 hours after your last dose. You can take doxycycline as often as every day when you are having condomless sex but don’t take more than 200 mg (two 100 mg pills) every 24 hours.
How should I take doxy-PEP?
• Take doxycycline with plenty of water or something else to drink so that it does not get stuck when you swallow. If your stomach is upset by doxycycline, taking it with food may help.
• Some people are more sensitive to the sun when they take doxycycline, so wear sunscreen.
• Please do not share doxycycline with others.
• Avoid dairy products, calcium, antacids, or multivitamins 2 hours before after taking doxycycline
