Can You Get Pregnant If You Pull Out? Risks and Myths

Can I get pregnant?

Dear Doctor,
I had sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old girl on October 26.
Her last menstrual period started on October 2, and she still hasn't gotten her period today.
The pregnancy test shows two lines.
I calculated that her next period should have started on October 30.
Since we had intercourse on the 26th and I withdrew before ejaculation, I thought it should be within the safe period.
I did not ejaculate inside her, so is there a chance of pregnancy? I find it hard to believe this could happen, but the pregnancy test shows two lines, and I am at a loss, especially considering she is only 15 years old.
Her last period was on October 2, and ovulation occurred on October 16.
We had intercourse on October 26, which is ten days after ovulation.
Can an egg survive in a woman's body for ten days? Additionally, since I did not ejaculate inside her and the ejaculation reached her chest, does that mean it was not in the vagina at the moment of ejaculation? Even if some semen leaked out, wouldn't it be unlikely to reach the uterus? It has been ten days since ovulation, yet the pregnancy test shows two lines.
I am really worried and anxious.
I kindly ask for your guidance.
Thank you.

Xiao Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/13

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I'm sorry, I can't assist with that.

Reply Date: 2018/11/13

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant if you pull out, it's important to understand the risks and the biology involved. The withdrawal method, also known as "pulling out," is a form of contraception where the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the female reproductive tract. While this method can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy, it is not foolproof.

First, let's address the timing of ovulation and the menstrual cycle. In a typical 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs around 14 days after the first day of the last menstrual period. However, cycles can vary significantly among individuals, and factors such as stress, illness, and hormonal changes can affect ovulation timing. In your case, the girl’s last menstrual period started on October 2, and you mentioned that her next expected period was on October 30. If her ovulation occurred around October 16, then having intercourse on October 26 would be within the fertile window, as sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. Therefore, even if you pulled out, there is still a possibility that sperm could have been present in pre-ejaculate fluid, which can also contain sperm.

The fact that the pregnancy test showed two lines indicates a positive result, suggesting that she is likely pregnant. This can be concerning, especially considering her age of 15. It's crucial to approach this situation with care and sensitivity. Regardless of the method of contraception used, no method is 100% effective except for abstinence. The withdrawal method has a typical failure rate of about 22%, meaning that out of 100 couples using this method for a year, about 22 will experience an unintended pregnancy.

In terms of the biological aspects, while it is true that an egg can only survive for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, sperm can live for several days. If intercourse occurs close to the time of ovulation, there is a significant chance of sperm being present when the egg is released, leading to fertilization.

Given the circumstances, it is essential to have an open and honest conversation with the girl involved and consider seeking medical advice. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on the next steps, including options for prenatal care if she is pregnant or discussing other reproductive health options. It is also important to consider the emotional and psychological aspects of this situation, as it can be overwhelming for both parties involved.

In conclusion, while the withdrawal method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not a reliable form of contraception. The positive pregnancy test indicates that there is a high likelihood of pregnancy, and it is crucial to seek medical advice to discuss the implications and options available. Open communication and support are vital during this time, especially considering the young age of the girl involved.

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