Conception: Sperm and Egg Lifespan Explained

Contraception

Hello, doctor.
I am the person who asked question #143779.
Thank you for your response.
I still have some doubts regarding the last question, and I kindly ask the doctor to reply again.
1.
How long can sperm and eggs survive in a woman's body? Answer: 7-14 days.

- Could you please clarify why sperm can last 7-14 days in a woman's body if they typically have a shorter lifespan?

2.
Isn't the lifespan of an egg only about 24-48 hours after ovulation? Why is it stated as 7-14 days?
3.
If I do not want to get pregnant and my menstrual cycle is approximately 31-34 days with menstruation lasting 5-7 days, and my last period started on October 2nd, if I have sexual intercourse between April 13th and April 23rd, is there a chance of pregnancy?
4.
I always use condoms, but there is a possibility that male bodily fluids may come into contact with the vagina during penetration.
I am very concerned that this could lead to pregnancy.
What solutions do you recommend?
Thank you very much, doctor.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/18

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Is it true that sperm only has a lifespan of a few days once it enters the female body? Why is there a mention of 7-14 days? Ans: Sperm has a very strong viability.

2.
Is it true that an egg only has a lifespan of about two days after ovulation? Why is there a mention of 7-14 days? Ans: An unfertilized egg does not survive for 7-14 days.

3.
If I temporarily do not want to get pregnant, with a menstrual cycle of about 31-34 days and menstruation lasting 5-7 days, and my last period started on 10/2, if I engage in sexual intercourse between 13/4 and 23/4, could I get pregnant? Ans: Not using a condom could result in pregnancy.

4.
If I use a condom throughout intercourse, but there is a chance that male bodily fluids may come into contact during insertion, I am worried that this could lead to pregnancy.
What solutions are there? Ans: Using a condom throughout intercourse, even if there is contact with male bodily fluids during insertion, does not necessarily lead to pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2019/02/18

More Info

Understanding conception is crucial for anyone trying to navigate the complexities of fertility and pregnancy. Let's break down the lifespan of sperm and eggs, and address your specific questions regarding conception and the potential for pregnancy.

1. Sperm Lifespan: When sperm enters the female reproductive tract, it can survive for up to 5 days under optimal conditions. However, in some cases, sperm can remain viable for up to 7 days. This extended lifespan is due to the favorable environment created by cervical mucus during ovulation, which nourishes and protects the sperm. Therefore, if intercourse occurs a few days before ovulation, the sperm can still fertilize the egg when it is released.

2. Egg Lifespan: The lifespan of an egg is indeed much shorter than that of sperm. Once an egg is released during ovulation, it typically survives for about 12 to 24 hours. If it is not fertilized within this timeframe, it will disintegrate and be absorbed by the body or expelled during menstruation. The confusion about the 7-14 days may arise from the overall fertility window, which includes the days leading up to ovulation when sperm can survive in anticipation of the egg's release.

3. Timing of Intercourse and Pregnancy Risk: Given your menstrual cycle of approximately 31-34 days, if your last period started on October 2nd, ovulation would likely occur around October 16th to 18th. If you engage in sexual activity between October 13th and October 23rd, you are within a window where pregnancy is possible, especially if ovulation occurs during that time. The days leading up to ovulation are critical for maximizing the chances of conception.

4. Contraceptive Measures: Using condoms is an effective way to prevent pregnancy, but it is essential to use them correctly throughout the entire sexual encounter. If there is concern about pre-ejaculate fluid (which can contain sperm), ensure that the condom is applied before any genital contact occurs. If you are worried about the possibility of sperm exposure due to fluid on the condom, consider using additional contraceptive methods, such as spermicide or hormonal birth control, to further reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

In conclusion, understanding the lifespan of sperm and eggs is vital for anyone trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy. If you are actively trying to prevent pregnancy, using condoms consistently and correctly is key. If you have further concerns about your fertility or contraceptive methods, consulting with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist can provide personalized guidance and support.

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