Pregnancy Risks and Contraceptive Options After Intimacy

Probability of Pregnancy

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about an incident on March 1st when I had intimate contact with my boyfriend.
I noticed that before he used his hand on me, he had touched himself (which can produce secretions when he is aroused).
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? We only engaged in foreplay without a condom, but we used condoms for the rest of the time.

Today (March 5th), I am experiencing lower back pain and occasional dull pain in my lower left abdomen, which makes me very worried that it could be pelvic inflammation (as I have had pelvic inflammatory disease in the past).
Is it possible that this is pelvic inflammatory disease again?
Additionally, I do not plan to have children and my menstrual cycle is irregular, so I am considering taking birth control pills.
However, I have a lump in my breast (which has been checked and is not serious), and due to this, my gynecologist does not recommend taking birth control pills.
In this case, is using condoms alone sufficient for contraception, or are there other contraceptive methods I should consider?
Thank you for your help, and I appreciate your hard work.

Danxin de nǚzǐ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On March 1st, I had intimate contact with my boyfriend, but I noticed that he touched himself before using his hand on me (he has secretions when he is aroused).
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? Answer: The chance of pregnancy is low since we only engaged in foreplay without a condom, but we used condoms for the rest of the time.
Then today (March 5th), I am experiencing lower back pain and occasional dull pain in my lower left abdomen.
I am really worried it could be something like pelvic inflammation (since I have had pelvic inflammatory disease before).
Could this be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease? Answer: Lower back pain and occasional dull pain in the lower left abdomen do not necessarily indicate pelvic inflammatory disease; it would be best to monitor the symptoms and consult a doctor if they persist.
Since I do not plan to have children and my menstrual cycle is irregular, I would like to take birth control pills.
However, my gynecologist advised against it due to a lump in my breast (which I have already checked and found to be benign).
Given this situation, is using only condoms sufficient for contraception? Answer: Is that enough, or are there other contraceptive methods? Answer: Consider using an intrauterine device (IUD).

Reply Date: 2019/03/06

More Info

When it comes to understanding pregnancy risks and contraceptive options after intimate encounters, it's essential to consider several factors, including the nature of the sexual activity, the use of contraceptives, and any underlying health concerns.

In your situation, you mentioned having intimate contact with your boyfriend on March 1st, where he touched himself and then you, without using a condom during foreplay. While the risk of pregnancy from this type of contact is generally low, it is not entirely negligible. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if it comes into contact with the vaginal area, there is a potential risk of pregnancy, albeit small. Since you mentioned that you used condoms for the rest of the sexual activity, this significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, as condoms are effective in preventing sperm from entering the vagina.

Regarding the symptoms you are experiencing, such as lower back pain and occasional discomfort in the left lower abdomen, these could be attributed to various factors. While pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a possibility, especially given your history, it is not the only explanation for these symptoms. Other potential causes could include ovulation pain, menstrual cramps, or even stress-related muscle tension. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

As for contraception, since you have expressed a desire not to become pregnant and have concerns about taking hormonal contraceptives due to a benign breast lump, relying solely on condoms can be a viable option. Condoms, when used correctly and consistently, are effective at preventing pregnancy and also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, if you are looking for additional contraceptive methods, consider the following options:
1. Non-Hormonal IUD: The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective form of contraception that does not involve hormones. It can prevent pregnancy for several years and is reversible.

2. Diaphragm or Cervical Cap: These barrier methods can be used in conjunction with spermicide to increase effectiveness. They require proper fitting and use.

3. Fertility Awareness Methods: Tracking your menstrual cycle and identifying fertile days can help you avoid intercourse during ovulation. However, this method requires diligence and may not be suitable for everyone.

4. Contraceptive Implants: If you are open to hormonal methods in the future, implants are a long-term option that can be discussed with your healthcare provider.

5. Emergency Contraception: If you are concerned about potential pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, emergency contraception (like Plan B) can be taken within a specific timeframe to prevent pregnancy.

It's crucial to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your contraceptive options, especially considering your medical history. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each method and find the best solution tailored to your needs.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from the described intimate contact is low, it is not zero. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare provider about your concerns and contraceptive options is the best course of action. Always prioritize your health and well-being when making decisions about your reproductive health.

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