Can You Get Pregnant? Risks and Symptoms in Relationships

Can I get pregnant?

I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend on July 8th.
We both used condoms, and there was no ejaculation.
Afterward, she also rinsed herself clean.
Is there a chance of pregnancy in this situation? Additionally, her menstrual cycle is irregular, with a 39-day cycle in June and a 43-day cycle in May.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Recently, she has been feeling strange sensations in her abdomen and sometimes experiences stomach pain.
Could this be a symptom of her menstrual period approaching, or something else?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/21

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Basically, if condoms are used consistently throughout sexual intercourse, the chances of pregnancy are very low.
As for cases with irregular menstrual cycles, the fertile window cannot be accurately calculated, and other contraceptive methods should be employed.
Thank you for your question, and if you have any concerns, you should seek medical advice.

Reply Date: 2018/07/21

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether pregnancy can occur from sexual intercourse, especially when precautions like condoms are used, it’s essential to understand both the mechanics of conception and the factors that can influence it.
In your case, since you mentioned that you and your girlfriend used condoms and there was no ejaculation inside her, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. Condoms, when used correctly, are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. There are rare instances where condoms can break or slip off, which could lead to exposure to sperm. Additionally, pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, although the quantity is usually minimal.

Regarding your girlfriend's irregular menstrual cycle, it’s important to note that a woman’s cycle can vary significantly from month to month. A cycle length of 39 days in June and 43 days in May indicates that her ovulation may not be occurring at the same time each month. Irregular cycles can make it more challenging to predict ovulation, which is the time when a woman is most fertile. If she has a longer cycle, ovulation may occur later than the typical 14 days after the first day of her last period. This variability can affect the timing of potential conception.

Now, concerning her recent symptoms of abdominal discomfort and occasional stomach pain, these could be related to a variety of factors. It’s possible that these sensations are related to her menstrual cycle, especially if she is approaching her period. Many women experience premenstrual symptoms, including cramping, bloating, and abdominal discomfort, as their bodies prepare for menstruation. However, if these symptoms are unusual for her or if they persist, it would be wise for her to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any other potential issues, such as gastrointestinal problems or early signs of pregnancy.

If your girlfriend is concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the most straightforward way to confirm this is through a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterus. For the most accurate results, it’s best to take the test after a missed period.

In summary, while the use of condoms significantly lowers the risk of pregnancy, it does not eliminate it entirely. Given your girlfriend's irregular cycle and her current symptoms, it would be prudent for her to take a pregnancy test if her period is late or if she continues to experience discomfort. If there are any concerns about her health or the possibility of pregnancy, seeking medical advice is always a good step.

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