Can You Get Pregnant from Pre-Ejaculate? the Risks

Can I get pregnant?

After having intercourse with my boyfriend for the first time, my period came during the last two days.
Since then, we have had unprotected sex with ejaculation outside for less than a month.
I am inexperienced and worried about pregnancy.
My boyfriend told me that pre-ejaculate fluid contains non-viable sperm.
Is this true? Am I at risk of becoming pregnant?

Memei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/08

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, pre-ejaculate fluid cannot guarantee the absence of sperm, and one should never rely solely on the safe period for contraception.
If pregnancy is a concern, it is best to take preventive measures beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/04/08

More Info

Yes, it is possible to get pregnant from pre-ejaculate fluid, commonly referred to as pre-cum. This fluid is released from the penis before ejaculation and can contain sperm. While the concentration of sperm in pre-ejaculate is generally lower than in ejaculate, it is not entirely devoid of sperm. Studies have shown that pre-ejaculate can indeed contain viable sperm, which means that there is a risk of pregnancy if it comes into contact with the vagina.

The risk of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is particularly relevant in situations where contraception is not used, as in your case where you mentioned having unprotected intercourse. Even if your boyfriend believes that pre-ejaculate does not contain sperm, it is important to understand that this is a misconception. The presence of sperm in pre-ejaculate can vary from person to person, and it is not a reliable method of contraception.

In terms of timing, you mentioned that you had intercourse during the last two days of your menstrual period. While the likelihood of becoming pregnant during this time is generally lower, it is not impossible. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, and if you have a shorter menstrual cycle, ovulation could occur soon after your period ends, increasing the chances of sperm meeting an egg.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period is late or if you experience any early signs of pregnancy, such as nausea or breast tenderness. Additionally, if you are sexually active and not planning to conceive, it is crucial to consider reliable contraceptive methods to prevent unintended pregnancies. Options include hormonal birth control, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and other forms of contraception.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is lower than from ejaculate, it is still a possibility. If you are worried about the risk of pregnancy, taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider about your contraceptive options would be wise. Understanding your body and the reproductive cycle can help you make informed decisions about sexual health and contraception.

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