Accidents happen. Sometimes condoms slip off during sex because they’re too big, too small, there's not enough lubrication, or your partner didn’t take off the condom after ejaculating or when their penis got soft. All of these things can cause the condom to slide off of the penis while in the vagina.
First things first, if the condom came off and you weren’t using another birth control method, it’s a good idea to take emergency contraception if you want to prevent pregnancy. There are a few types of emergency contraception — like the morning-after pill AKA “Plan B” — that are safe and effective ways to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The sooner you take it the better.
Now, let’s get it out. While you’re in the shower or lying down, take a few deep breaths to relax, and reach inside your vagina with a clean finger. Feel around for the condom — it might be deep in your vagina, but it's important to remember that it can't get "lost" up there, so try not to panic if you don't feel it right away. You can also try putting one leg up on the toilet or squatting and bearing down (pushing your pelvic muscles, like you're trying to poop) — this can help you reach deeper in your vagina or push the condom down lower so you can grab it easier.
Once you feel the condom, gently pull it down toward your vaginal opening with your finger. It might feel slippery and hard to grab, and you may have to use two fingers to pinch it and pull it out. If you feel the condom but can’t pull it out yourself, a nurse or doctor might have to step in. You can always contact your local Planned Parenthood health center for help.
