Can I Get Pregnant? Risks After Protected Intercourse - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy after protected intercourse, it's essential to consider several factors, including the timing of the menstrual cycle, the effectiveness of the contraceptive method used, and the specifics of the sexual encounter.

In your case, your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on November 2, and you had intercourse on November 16. Given that the average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days after the first day of the last period. Therefore, in a 28-day cycle, ovulation would likely occur around November 16, which is the same day you had intercourse. However, menstrual cycles can vary significantly in length and regularity, so it's important to take that into account.

You mentioned that you used condoms throughout the sexual encounter. Condoms are a highly effective form of contraception when used correctly, with a typical use effectiveness rate of about 85% to 98%. This means that while there is still a small chance of pregnancy, the likelihood is significantly reduced when condoms are used properly.
In your case, since you used a condom during the entire duration of intercourse and withdrew before ejaculation, the risk of pregnancy is low. It's important to note that the effectiveness of condoms can be compromised if they are not used correctly, such as if they are damaged or if there is any leakage. However, if you ensured that the condom was intact and used it properly, the chances of sperm entering the vagina are minimal.

Additionally, you mentioned that you cleaned the penis and put on a new condom for subsequent intercourse. This is a good practice as it helps to further reduce the risk of any potential sperm transfer from the previous encounter.
To summarize, while there is always a small risk of pregnancy with any sexual activity, especially during the ovulation period, the combination of using condoms correctly and withdrawing before ejaculation significantly lowers that risk. If you are still concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you might consider using emergency contraception, which can be effective if taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected intercourse.

It's also worth noting that if your girlfriend experiences any unusual symptoms or if her period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.
In conclusion, while the timing of your sexual activity coincided with her ovulation period, the use of condoms and proper withdrawal techniques greatly reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. If you have further concerns or questions about sexual health and contraception, consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.