Could I Be Pregnant? Risks and Menstrual Cycle After Intercourse - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello doctor, on May 25th, there was an encounter where I first used my hand, then had intercourse with a condom, and there was no ejaculation inside.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy in this scenario? (He mentioned that he wiped with tissue before putting on the condom.) If he hadn't wiped and just put on the condom directly, would there still be a possibility of pregnancy? My menstrual cycle is irregular, but since I planned to go out, I took a pill to delay my period on the mornings of June 19th to June 22nd, and then one more on the morning of June 23rd, after which I stopped taking the pills.
How long after stopping the pills is considered normal for my period to return? Is 7 to 8 days considered normal? If my period does not come after stopping the pills, is there a possibility that I could be pregnant from the encounter on May 25th, or is it unlikely?

123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/27

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello Miss 123: Your boyfriend used a condom and did not ejaculate inside, so the chances of pregnancy are very, very low, and you shouldn't worry too much.
After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, your period will generally come in about three to five days.
You don't need to constantly worry about being pregnant; just wait until the due date and take a urine test to find out.

Reply Date: 2019/06/27

More Info


When it comes to understanding the possibility of pregnancy after sexual intercourse, especially in the context of your situation, there are several factors to consider. Based on the details you provided, you engaged in sexual activity on May 25, using a condom after manual stimulation, and there was no ejaculation inside the vagina. This is an important detail because the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced when there is no ejaculation, especially if the condom was used correctly.

However, it is essential to understand that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can sometimes contain sperm, although the quantity is usually very low. If the condom was applied after some manual stimulation, and if there was any sperm present on the fingers or if the condom was not applied correctly, there is a slight possibility of pregnancy. The risk is minimal, but it is not zero.

Regarding the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill"), you mentioned taking it on June 19-22 and again on June 23. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but it can be effective up to 5 days after. Since you took the pills within this timeframe, you significantly reduced your chances of becoming pregnant.

As for your menstrual cycle, it is important to note that emergency contraception can cause temporary changes in your menstrual cycle. It may lead to your next period being earlier or later than expected, and it can also cause heavier or lighter bleeding. The timing of your next period can vary widely after taking emergency contraception, and a delay of 7 to 8 days can be considered normal.
If your period does not arrive after a week or so from when you expected it, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. The test will be most accurate if taken after a missed period.
In summary, while there is a slight possibility of pregnancy due to the circumstances you described, the use of a condom and emergency contraception significantly lowers that risk. If you are concerned about your menstrual cycle or the possibility of pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test after a missed period will provide you with clarity. If you have further concerns or if the test is positive, consulting with a healthcare provider would be the best course of action to discuss your options and any necessary follow-up care.

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