Can You Get Pregnant After Using Condoms and Withdrawal?

Will this result in pregnancy?

If your girlfriend had her period just 1 to 2 days prior and you used a condom throughout intercourse, withdrawing before ejaculation, and checked the condom for any holes afterward, the likelihood of pregnancy is very low.
However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, so there is still a small risk.
If there are concerns about potential pregnancy, it may be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test or consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.

Mr. Hu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/03

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, there is a possibility of pregnancy, as the failure rate of condoms, even with correct usage, is still around 5%.
It is generally not recommended to rely solely on condoms for contraception.
I suggest that if your period is more than a week late, you should take a urine test to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2016/05/03

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether pregnancy can occur after using condoms and the withdrawal method, it's important to understand the effectiveness of these contraceptive methods and the circumstances surrounding their use.

Condoms, when used correctly, are one of the most effective forms of contraception. They not only prevent sperm from entering the vagina but also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The typical failure rate of condoms is about 18% per year, meaning that 18 out of 100 women will become pregnant in a year of typical use. However, with perfect use, the failure rate drops to about 2%. This means that if the condom is used correctly throughout the entire sexual act, the chances of pregnancy are significantly reduced.

The withdrawal method, also known as "pulling out," involves the male partner withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not very reliable on its own. Pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if the male partner does not withdraw in time, there is a risk of pregnancy. The typical failure rate for withdrawal is about 22% per year with typical use.

In your case, you mentioned that your girlfriend's period had just ended 1-2 days prior to intercourse, and you used a condom throughout the act, also performing a water test to check for any leaks. If the condom was used correctly and did not break, and if you withdrew before ejaculation, the likelihood of pregnancy is quite low. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk of pregnancy.

It's also worth noting that sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if your girlfriend ovulates shortly after her period, there is a possibility of sperm being present when the egg is released. However, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the next period, so if her cycle is regular, the timing may not align with the days immediately following her period.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you might consider a few options:
1. Emergency Contraception: If you are within 72-120 hours (depending on the type of emergency contraception) of the unprotected intercourse, emergency contraception pills (like Plan B or Ella) can be taken to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

2. Pregnancy Test: If your girlfriend misses her next period, taking a home pregnancy test can provide clarity. Most tests are accurate if taken after a missed period.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have ongoing concerns about contraception and pregnancy, speaking with a healthcare provider can help you explore more reliable contraceptive options and address any questions you may have.

In summary, while the combination of condom use and withdrawal significantly lowers the risk of pregnancy, no method is foolproof. If you have concerns, consider taking a pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare professional for further guidance.

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