Am I Pregnant? Risks and Symptoms After Safe Sex

Is it possible to get pregnant?

The doctor would like to ask you about your situation.
Your expected menstrual period is on September 25.
You had sexual intercourse with your boyfriend on September 18, during which you used condoms throughout, and there were two instances of external ejaculation.
After the first ejaculation, you changed the condom, and during the second time, you ejaculated a more watery substance.
You were concerned that after removing the condom, it might not have been cleaned properly, but you did not penetrate again afterward.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy in this scenario?
Starting on September 22, you noticed some blood-tinged discharge.
Throughout the day, you observed this only once or twice, and it was just a little bit of light red.
On September 23, after using the restroom, you wiped and saw clear discharge with some red streaks, which made you think your period had started.
However, throughout that day, you only noticed light red discharge once or twice.
For the past two days, you have experienced a dull pain in your lower abdomen, similar to menstrual cramps.

Is this a normal response indicating that your period is about to start, or could there be another reason? You are being very cautious about the possibility of pregnancy, ensuring that the condom was not removed during intercourse, checking for slippage, and changing to a new condom after ejaculation, as well as wiping before putting on a new one.

En, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/24

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please perform a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors.
If your period is more than two months late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/09/24

More Info

When it comes to concerns about pregnancy after engaging in sexual activity, it’s essential to understand the mechanics of conception and the effectiveness of contraceptive methods. Based on your description, it seems that you took several precautions during your sexual encounter, which significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy.

Firstly, using condoms correctly throughout the entire sexual act is one of the most effective methods of preventing pregnancy. You mentioned that you used a condom for both instances of intercourse and that you changed the condom after the first ejaculation. This is a good practice as it helps to prevent any potential leakage of sperm that could occur if the same condom is used for multiple ejaculations. Additionally, you noted that the second ejaculation was outside the vagina, which further decreases the likelihood of sperm entering the reproductive tract.

Regarding the bleeding you experienced starting on September 22, it’s important to consider a few factors. Light spotting or bleeding can occur for various reasons, and it doesn’t always indicate pregnancy. It could be a sign that your menstrual cycle is about to begin, especially since you mentioned that your expected period was around September 25. The symptoms you described, such as light bleeding and cramping in the lower abdomen, are often associated with the onset of menstruation.
However, it’s also worth noting that some women experience what is known as implantation bleeding, which can occur if a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This typically happens around the time your period is due, which can lead to confusion. Given that you have been cautious and used condoms effectively, the chances of pregnancy are low, but they are not zero. The failure rate of condoms is about 2% with perfect use, but with typical use, it can be around 15%.
If your period does not arrive within a week of its expected date, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for peace of mind. These tests are quite accurate and can provide you with a definitive answer regarding pregnancy.

In terms of your concerns about the bleeding and cramping, if the bleeding continues or becomes heavier, or if you experience severe pain, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide a thorough evaluation and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Lastly, it’s important to communicate openly with your partner about your concerns and feelings regarding pregnancy and sexual health. Understanding each other’s fears and taking proactive steps, such as discussing contraceptive options and possibly considering hormonal birth control methods, can help alleviate anxiety and enhance your sexual experience.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy appears low given your careful practices, monitoring your cycle and being aware of your body’s signals is crucial. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

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