Can She Get Pregnant? Risks After Unprotected Contact

Can I get pregnant?

Hello doctor, I have a question.
My girlfriend (who is still a virgin) is ovulating on August 3rd.
Today (August 6th), while I was sitting on the bed and masturbating, I accidentally ejaculated onto the bed, facing her (she was also naked).
My girlfriend has been using a menstrual pad to cover her vagina, but there were 3 drops on the inner thigh and one drop on the middle finger of the hand holding the pad (a total of 4 drops).
I checked her pubic hair and vagina and did not find any visible semen (I believe I didn’t miss anything).
At that moment, I also used a clean tissue to wipe her vagina.
So I’d like to ask, is there a chance of pregnancy? Does she need to take emergency contraception?

Mu Mu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Your girlfriend (who is still a virgin) is in her ovulation period on August 3rd.
Today (August 6th), while I was sitting on the bed and masturbating, I accidentally ejaculated onto her while she was sitting in front of me (also naked).
She has been using a barrier to protect her vagina, but there were 3 drops on the inner thigh and one drop on the middle finger of the hand that was holding the barrier (a total of 4 drops).
I also checked her pubic hair and vagina and did not find any obvious semen (I believe I didn't miss anything).
At that moment, I used a clean tissue to wipe her vagina.
So, I would like to ask if this could lead to pregnancy? Is there a need for emergency contraception? Answer: With the hand protecting the vagina, 3 drops on the inner thigh and one drop on the finger (a total of 4 drops), this should not result in pregnancy, and there is no need for emergency contraception.

Reply Date: 2018/08/06

More Info

When it comes to the possibility of pregnancy, especially in situations involving unprotected sexual contact, it is essential to understand the risks and the biological factors at play. In your case, it appears that there was some accidental exposure to semen, albeit in a very limited manner.
Firstly, let's clarify how pregnancy occurs. For a woman to become pregnant, sperm must fertilize an egg. This typically happens during ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovary and is available for fertilization. The sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, so if unprotected intercourse occurs in the days leading up to or during ovulation, there is a higher chance of pregnancy.

In your situation, you mentioned that your girlfriend was in her ovulation period on August 3rd, and the incident occurred on August 6th. While the chances of pregnancy from the small amount of semen that may have come into contact with her skin are relatively low, it is not impossible. Sperm can potentially travel from the skin to the vaginal canal, especially if there is any movement or contact afterward.

Given that there was some exposure, it is advisable to consider the use of emergency contraception, commonly known as the "morning-after pill." This is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it will be in preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your question about whether your girlfriend should take emergency contraception, it would be prudent to err on the side of caution. If there is any concern about potential pregnancy, taking the emergency contraceptive can help mitigate that risk. It is important to note that emergency contraception is not an abortion pill; it works primarily by preventing ovulation or fertilization.

In addition to considering emergency contraception, it is also essential to have open communication with your girlfriend about sexual health and contraception moving forward. Discussing and agreeing on a reliable method of contraception can help prevent similar situations in the future. Options include hormonal birth control methods, condoms, or other forms of contraception that suit both partners.

Lastly, if your girlfriend has any concerns or experiences any unusual symptoms, it is advisable for her to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and support based on her health history and current situation.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from the scenario you described is low, it is not zero. Taking emergency contraception is a responsible step if there is any doubt. Open communication about sexual health and contraception is crucial for both partners to ensure a healthy and informed approach to sexual activity.

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