Is Pregnancy Possible After Protected Intercourse? Expert Insights

Is it possible to become pregnant?

The last menstrual period ended around March 1st.
Sexual intercourse occurred on March 2, 6, 9, 11, 15, and 16, all with condom use.
The condom was not withdrawn before ejaculation, and visually, there were no signs of breakage.
Some of these encounters lasted between 30 to 60 minutes.
On March 15 and 16, I experienced a stinging sensation during intercourse, and afterward, there was slight vaginal bleeding.
After March 16, I noticed redness and swelling of the labia, itching, and the presence of yellow-green discharge resembling cottage cheese.
Consequently, from March 18 to March 31, I applied a steroid cream called "Betamethasone" prescribed by a dermatologist (I now realize that I should not apply medications indiscriminately, I apologize).
Today, I am experiencing abdominal bloating and diarrhea, along with a sustained temperature of 37.3°-37.9° (ear temperature) for 4 to 5 hours, while my usual temperature ranges from 36.5° to 36.8°.
I do not have symptoms such as fatigue, drowsiness, weakness in my limbs, or muscle aches.
According to my menstrual tracking app, March 15 was identified as the ovulation period, and March 29 is expected to be the first day of my next menstrual cycle.
Doctor, is there a possibility that I could be pregnant? Thank you for your patience in reading my inquiry.

Feng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/04

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
It is advisable to observe for now.
If your period does not arrive after another week, it is recommended to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/04/04

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy after protected intercourse, it is essential to evaluate several factors, including the effectiveness of the contraceptive method used, the timing of intercourse in relation to the menstrual cycle, and any potential complications that may arise during the sexual activity.

In your case, you mentioned that you had protected intercourse on multiple occasions using condoms, and you did not experience any visible breakage of the condoms. Generally, when used correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, with a typical use failure rate of about 13% and a perfect use failure rate of about 2%. This means that if the condom was intact and used properly throughout the intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

However, there are a few critical points to consider. First, you mentioned that you experienced some discomfort and slight bleeding after intercourse on March 15 and 16, along with symptoms such as redness, itching, and unusual discharge. These symptoms could indicate a potential infection, such as a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, which may require medical attention. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment, especially since the discharge you described appears abnormal.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, if your app indicates that March 15 was your ovulation day, and you had intercourse around that time, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you had unprotected intercourse close to ovulation, the risk of conception increases. However, since you used condoms, this risk is mitigated.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as abdominal bloating, diarrhea, and a slight fever, could be related to an infection or another underlying condition rather than pregnancy. It is crucial to differentiate between these possibilities. If you suspect pregnancy, the most reliable way to confirm it is through a home pregnancy test, which can be taken about a week after your expected period. If your period does not arrive, or if you continue to experience unusual symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical advice.

In summary, while the use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not entirely foolproof. Given your symptoms and the timeline of your menstrual cycle, it is essential to monitor your situation closely. If you have concerns about potential pregnancy or any health issues, please consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care. They can provide you with the necessary tests and treatments to address your symptoms and any potential risks.

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