Can You Get Pregnant? Risks with Condoms and Withdrawal

Can I get pregnant?

Doctor, I’m sorry to ask: If I had intercourse with my boyfriend on the last day of my period, and he wore two condoms the entire time and practiced withdrawal, is there still a risk of pregnancy? If we consistently use condoms and practice withdrawal every time, is there still a chance of pregnancy? Will taking birth control pills affect future fertility?

oo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/15

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
This method is highly unlikely to result in pregnancy.
2.
Taking birth control pills suppresses ovulation; it is recommended to use them for 5-6 months and then stop for 1-2 months to allow the ovaries to recover.

Reply Date: 2021/09/15

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy while using condoms and the withdrawal method, it's important to consider several factors. First, let's break down the effectiveness of these methods individually and then discuss their combined use.

Condoms are a widely used form of contraception that, when used correctly, can be quite effective in preventing pregnancy. The typical use failure rate of male condoms is about 13%, meaning that 13 out of 100 women will become pregnant within a year of using condoms as their only form of birth control. However, with perfect use, this rate drops to about 2%. It's crucial to ensure that the condom is put on correctly and that it does not break or slip off during intercourse.

The withdrawal method, also known as "pulling out," involves the male partner withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation. While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not very reliable. The typical use failure rate is around 22%, primarily because pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, which can lead to pregnancy even if the male partner withdraws before ejaculation.

Now, regarding your specific situation: using two condoms at once is not recommended. This practice can increase the likelihood of condom breakage due to friction between the two layers. Therefore, while your intention is to enhance protection, it may actually compromise it. Instead, it's better to use one condom properly and combine it with the withdrawal method for added precaution.

If you consistently use condoms correctly and practice withdrawal, your chances of becoming pregnant are significantly reduced, but not eliminated. The combination of these methods can lower the risk of pregnancy, but no method outside of abstinence is 100% effective.

As for the question about taking birth control pills and their impact on future fertility, it's important to note that most hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, do not have a long-term effect on fertility. Once you stop taking the pill, your menstrual cycle typically returns to normal within a few months, and you can conceive. However, individual experiences may vary, and some women may take longer to return to their baseline fertility levels.

In summary, while using condoms and the withdrawal method together can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy, they are not foolproof. If you are looking for a more reliable form of contraception, consider discussing other options with your healthcare provider, such as hormonal birth control, IUDs, or implants, which can provide more effective long-term solutions. Always remember to communicate openly with your partner about your contraceptive choices and concerns to ensure both of you are comfortable and informed.

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