Can You Get Pregnant from Touching? Risks and Symptoms - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant from touching, particularly in the context of sexual activity that does not involve penetration, it is essential to understand the mechanics of conception and the associated risks. Based on the information provided, it appears that you engaged in sexual activity that involved manual stimulation but did not involve ejaculation or penetration.
To address your primary concern: the likelihood of pregnancy occurring from merely touching or manual stimulation is extremely low, especially if there was no direct ejaculation onto or into the vagina. Sperm must be deposited in the vaginal canal for pregnancy to occur, and while pre-ejaculatory fluid (also known as pre-cum) can contain sperm, the risk of pregnancy from hand-to-genital contact without ejaculation is minimal.
In your case, if your underwear felt wet, it is crucial to consider the source of that moisture. If it was due to vaginal secretions or pre-ejaculatory fluid, the risk remains low, especially if there was no direct transfer of sperm into the vagina. However, if there was any possibility that sperm from your fingers came into contact with the vaginal opening, there is a theoretical risk, albeit very small.
As for your girlfriend experiencing a high fever of 39.9 degrees Celsius (approximately 103.8 degrees Fahrenheit) shortly after your encounter, this symptom is not typically associated with pregnancy. High fever can be indicative of an infection or other medical condition, and it is advisable for her to seek medical attention to determine the cause of her fever. Pregnancy symptoms usually do not manifest immediately after conception; they typically appear a few weeks later, with common early signs including missed periods, nausea, breast tenderness, and fatigue.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from touching or manual stimulation without ejaculation is very low, it is not entirely impossible if sperm were somehow transferred. If your girlfriend is concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test if her period is late or to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Additionally, if she continues to experience a high fever or any other concerning symptoms, she should seek medical care promptly.

It is also worth noting that sexual health education emphasizes the importance of understanding how pregnancy occurs and the various ways to prevent unintended pregnancies. Using barrier methods, such as condoms, can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during sexual activity. Open communication with partners about sexual health and safety is crucial for a healthy sexual relationship.