Can You Get Pregnant from Indirect Contact During Menstruation?

Is it possible to become pregnant?

Doctor, a few hours ago I ejaculated, cleaned myself, and urinated.
There may have been some fluid from the prostate or bulbourethral glands that got onto my underwear.
I'm not sure if it got on my hands, but I then inserted my fingers into my girlfriend's vagina.
Our genitalia did not directly touch, and I did not wash my hands.
Her menstrual cycle is irregular, so I'm unsure if she is in her ovulation period.
If she is ovulating, could this lead to pregnancy? Is there a need for medication? Thank you for your help, doctor!

Xu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should not be pregnant; just monitor the situation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant from indirect contact during menstruation, it's important to understand the mechanics of conception and the menstrual cycle.
Firstly, pregnancy occurs when sperm fertilizes an egg. For this to happen, sperm must be deposited in the vagina or near the cervix, where it can swim up through the cervix into the uterus and potentially meet an egg. In your scenario, you mentioned that there was ejaculation, and you cleaned up afterward, but there is a possibility that some sperm could have been transferred to your girlfriend's vagina through your fingers.

While the likelihood of becoming pregnant from indirect contact, especially during menstruation, is relatively low, it is not impossible. Sperm can survive outside the body for a short period, and if there was any sperm on your fingers, it could theoretically lead to pregnancy if it came into contact with the vaginal canal. However, the chances are significantly reduced during menstruation because the uterine lining is shedding, and the environment is not conducive for sperm to survive or for fertilization to occur.

Regarding your concern about whether this could happen during ovulation, it's essential to note that ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. If your girlfriend's cycle is irregular, it can be challenging to pinpoint ovulation accurately. If she was indeed ovulating at the time of contact, the chances of pregnancy would be higher, but again, the indirect nature of the contact reduces the likelihood.

As for whether you need to take emergency contraception (EC), it depends on how concerned you are about the possibility of pregnancy. If you believe there was a significant risk of sperm transfer and you are within the appropriate time frame (typically within 72 to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse), taking EC could be a prudent choice. EC works best the sooner it is taken after potential exposure.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from indirect contact during menstruation is low, it is not zero. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, consider discussing this with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances. They can also guide you regarding emergency contraception if you feel it is necessary. Additionally, if you and your girlfriend are sexually active, it may be beneficial to discuss and consider more reliable forms of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancies in the future.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant from Indirect Contact? Expert Answers

Hello Doctor: My girlfriend and I had intercourse on February 18. The day after her menstrual period ended, we had genital contact through a towel, with no direct contact and no ejaculation. Then we took a shower together; although I was close to ejaculation, I did not ejaculate....

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low. It is better to take preventive measures for contraception before engaging in sexual activity. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant from Indirect Contact? Understanding the Risks

I'm not a medical expert, but I can provide some general information. Based on the scenario you described, the likelihood of pregnancy occurring from the situation you outlined is very low. Sperm typically needs to be deposited directly into the vagina for pregnancy to occur...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand. Do not rely on the safe period. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant from Indirect Contact? Understanding the Risks

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, the chances of pregnancy are low but not impossible. As long as there are active sperm in the vagina during the ovulation period, there is still a possibility of pregnancy, regardless of the method. It is advisable to take appropriate contracepti...

Can You Get Pregnant from Indirect Contact? Understanding the Risks

Hello, my girlfriend got her period on October 12. We had sexual intercourse on October 30 and 31, using condoms and with external ejaculation. However, I am concerned that my hands may have touched her genital area. Is there a possibility of pregnancy in this situation?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.