Delayed Menstruation: Could It Be Pregnancy? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Delayed menstruation?


Hello doctor, I ovulated on October 7 and had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend.
We used a condom throughout the entire time and checked afterward for any damage, and there was none.
My boyfriend also did not ejaculate inside; he took care of himself.
However, about half an hour later, he wanted to continue, so we had another round, again using a condom, and there was no ejaculation or damage.
Now, my period is late by one day.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant? Could my boyfriend's hands having contact with sperm lead to pregnancy?

Miss Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures at all times.
Do not rely on the safe period.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/10/23

More Info


Delayed menstruation can certainly raise concerns about pregnancy, especially when there has been recent sexual activity. However, it is essential to understand the various factors that can contribute to a missed period and the likelihood of pregnancy in your specific situation.

In your case, you mentioned that you had sexual intercourse during your ovulation period on October 7, using condoms throughout the encounter. You also checked for any damage to the condoms and found none, and there was no ejaculation inside. This significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, as condoms are highly effective when used correctly.
The fact that you had a second sexual encounter shortly after, again with the use of condoms and without ejaculation, further lowers the chances of conception. While it is theoretically possible for sperm to be transferred from hands to the vagina, the likelihood of this leading to pregnancy is extremely low, especially if there was no direct ejaculation or significant exposure to sperm.

It's important to note that menstrual cycles can be influenced by various factors, including stress, changes in routine, hormonal fluctuations, and even illness. Given that your period is only one day late, it may be too early to conclude that you are pregnant. Many women experience variations in their menstrual cycles, and a delay of a day or two can be quite common.
If your period does not arrive within a week or so, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for reassurance. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. If the test is negative and your period still does not come, it may be worth consulting a healthcare provider to explore other potential causes for the delay.

In summary, while the possibility of pregnancy cannot be entirely ruled out, the circumstances you described suggest that it is unlikely. Factors such as stress or changes in your routine may be contributing to the delay. If you continue to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle or have further concerns, seeking medical advice would be a prudent step.

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