Contraceptive Concerns: What to Do If a Condom Breaks?

Condom breakage?

Hello doctor, I got my period on August 3rd.
I just checked my menstrual app, and my boyfriend and I had intercourse on the night of the 12th.
We used a condom, but towards the end, we heard the condom break, so he didn't continue.
He also didn't ejaculate.
Now I feel some discomfort in my uterus.
Should I take emergency contraception? What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Thank you.

Cindy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/13

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My period started on August 3rd, and I just checked my app for my safe period.
I had intercourse with my boyfriend on the night of the 12th, and we used a condom, but towards the end, we heard the condom break when he pulled out.
He did not ejaculate inside me, but now I feel some discomfort in my uterus.
Should I take emergency contraception?
Answer: Since my period started on August 3rd, having intercourse on August 12th is not considered safe.
Is there a high chance of pregnancy?
Answer: Given that the condom broke during withdrawal, the risk of pregnancy is significant.

Reply Date: 2019/08/13

More Info

When it comes to contraceptive concerns, particularly in the case of a condom breaking during intercourse, it's essential to understand the options available and the implications for pregnancy risk. In your situation, since you had unprotected intercourse after the condom broke, there is a possibility of pregnancy, albeit the risk may vary based on several factors.

Firstly, let's address the timing of your menstrual cycle. You mentioned that your last period started on August 3rd, and you had intercourse on August 12th. Typically, ovulation occurs around 12 to 16 days after the first day of your last menstrual period, which means you might be nearing your fertile window. If you have a regular cycle, the likelihood of ovulation occurring around that time increases, which could elevate the risk of pregnancy if sperm is present.

Since the condom broke but your partner did not ejaculate, the risk of pregnancy is somewhat reduced, but not eliminated. Pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if any sperm were present, there is still a chance of fertilization.

Given your concerns and the symptoms you are experiencing (such as a feeling of heaviness in the uterus), it would be prudent to consider taking emergency contraception (commonly known as the "morning-after pill"). Emergency contraception 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 afterward. The sooner you take it, the better the chances of preventing an unintended pregnancy.

In terms of the effectiveness of emergency contraception, it can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within the recommended time frame. However, it is not 100% effective, and its efficacy can be influenced by where you are in your menstrual cycle.

If you decide to take emergency contraception, you should also consider consulting with a healthcare provider for further advice and to discuss your ongoing contraceptive options. Regular contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, IUDs, or implants, can provide more reliable protection against unintended pregnancies in the future.

Lastly, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or any other concerning signs, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. These could indicate complications that need to be addressed.

In summary, given the circumstances of the condom breaking, it would be advisable to take emergency contraception as soon as possible to minimize the risk of pregnancy. Additionally, consider discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider to ensure you have a reliable method in place moving forward.

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