Pregnancy Risks and Accurate Testing: Your Questions Answered

Pregnancy and Pregnancy Testing

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a few questions.
My menstrual period last month was from October 28 to November 1, with a cycle length of 31-32 days.
On November 7, I first helped my boyfriend with manual stimulation (he ejaculated), and later he pushed back his foreskin but was unsure if any semen was on his hands.
After about ten minutes, when his hands were dry, he touched other parts of my body before performing digital penetration (during this time, he did not wash or wipe his hands).
My app indicates that November 9 to November 15 is the fertile window.
I recorded the lowest basal body temperature on November 15, and the ovulation test showed a positive result (T=C) on the same day.
On November 16, my basal body temperature increased by 0.04 degrees, but I noticed egg white cervical mucus (which was very stretchy) that evening.
I would like to ask you: 1.
Is the lowest temperature on November 15 the day of ovulation, or should I refer to the ovulation test? 2.
What is the likelihood that dried semen could survive until the ovulation day? Is the chance of pregnancy high? 3.
If I take a pregnancy test on November 21 or 22, will it be accurate? Thank you for your patience in reading this, and I appreciate your help!

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/19

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is likely not the ovulation period, so the chances of pregnancy should be low.
You can take a pregnancy test 12 days after intercourse.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/19

More Info

Understanding pregnancy risks and accurate testing is crucial for anyone trying to conceive or concerned about potential pregnancy. Based on your detailed inquiry, let's break down your questions and provide clarity on each aspect.

1. Determining Ovulation: You mentioned that your menstrual cycle is typically 31-32 days, with your last period starting on October 28. Ovulation generally occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period. Given your cycle length, ovulation would likely occur around November 11-12. The lowest basal body temperature (BBT) you recorded on November 15 could indicate that ovulation may have occurred shortly before that date, as BBT typically drops just before ovulation and then rises afterward. However, the most reliable indicators of ovulation are often ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) and the presence of fertile cervical mucus, which you noted as being egg-white in consistency on November 16. Therefore, while BBT can provide insights, OPKs are generally more accurate for pinpointing ovulation.

2. Sperm Viability: Regarding the potential for sperm to survive on your boyfriend's hands and lead to pregnancy, it's important to understand that sperm can live outside the body for a limited time. Once sperm is exposed to air and dries, its viability decreases significantly. While sperm can survive in moist environments for a short period, the likelihood of viable sperm transferring from dry hands to the vagina is low. However, if there was any moisture or if the sperm was still somewhat fresh, there is a small chance of pregnancy. Given that you were in your fertile window, any exposure to sperm could theoretically increase the risk of pregnancy, but the actual risk from the scenario you described is likely minimal.

3. Timing of Pregnancy Tests: You asked about the accuracy of a pregnancy test on November 21 or 22. Generally, home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, which would be around November 28 in your case. Testing too early can lead to false negatives, as the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) may not be at detectable levels yet. If you test on November 21 or 22, you may get a reliable result, but for the best accuracy, waiting until after your expected period is advisable.

In summary, while your observations about ovulation and potential pregnancy are valid, the risk of conception from the described scenario seems low. If you have further concerns or if your period does not arrive as expected, consider consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and possibly a blood test for pregnancy, which can provide more definitive results than home tests. Additionally, maintaining open communication with your partner about sexual health and contraception can help alleviate anxiety and ensure both of you are on the same page regarding family planning.

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