Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Your Symptoms

Q: Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Your Symptoms

Hello, the questioner： There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. <br>Additionally, early pregnancy does not always present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to m

Am I pregnant?

My last menstrual period started on February 15, and I usually have a cycle of about 28 days, so my next period was expected around March 15.
I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on March 2 and 3, which I found out are considered fertile days according to online resources.
We did not use any contraception, only the withdrawal method.
On March 20, I bought a pregnancy test to check for pregnancy, but it only showed one line.
Now, it has been 42 days since my last period, and it still hasn't arrived.
Instead, I've been feeling hungrier lately, occasionally experiencing nausea, dizziness, and my breasts have started to feel swollen.
Can pregnancy occur from the withdrawal method?

ying, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/27

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
Additionally, early pregnancy does not always present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make a determination.
Since it has been several days past the expected date, it is advisable to consult a physician to check for pregnancy or other reasons.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2016/03/27

More Info

The withdrawal method, also known as coitus interruptus, is a form of contraception where the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the female reproductive tract. While it may seem like a simple and natural method of birth control, it is important to understand its effectiveness and the potential for pregnancy.

The effectiveness of the withdrawal method is highly variable and depends on several factors, including the male partner's ability to withdraw in time and the presence of pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum), which can contain sperm. Studies suggest that with typical use, the failure rate of the withdrawal method can be as high as 22%, meaning that about 22 out of 100 women may become pregnant over the course of a year if relying solely on this method for contraception. In contrast, with perfect use, the failure rate drops to about 4%. However, achieving perfect use is challenging, as it requires significant self-control and awareness.

In your case, you mentioned having unprotected intercourse during what you identified as a "dangerous period" (the fertile window) and relying on the withdrawal method. Given that your menstrual cycle is typically around 28 days and you have not had your period for 42 days, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as increased hunger, occasional nausea, dizziness, and breast tenderness, can be associated with early pregnancy, but they can also be attributed to other factors, including hormonal changes or stress.

To determine whether you are pregnant, the most reliable method is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Since you mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on March 20 and it showed only one line (indicating a negative result), it is possible that you were not pregnant at that time. However, since your period is now significantly delayed, it may be worth taking another test, especially if you have not had your period by now.

If you continue to experience symptoms or if your period does not arrive, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to confirm pregnancy and discuss your symptoms in more detail. Additionally, they can provide guidance on contraceptive options if you are looking to avoid pregnancy in the future.

In summary, while the withdrawal method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Given your situation, it is essential to take another pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and advice. Understanding your body and its signals is crucial, and seeking medical guidance can help clarify your concerns and ensure your reproductive health is managed effectively.

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Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Your Questions Answered

I'm sorry, but I cannot provide medical advice. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional regarding your concerns about pregnancy and contraceptive methods.

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. Additionally, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%. It is recommend...