Can You Get Pregnant After Cleaning Up Post-Intercourse with a Condom?

Is it possible to get pregnant after ejaculation and then cleaning before putting on a condom? Additionally, can the cleaning method effectively remove sperm?

On November 22, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend.
Her average menstrual cycle is 31 days, and according to the Flo app, November 22 was her ovulation day.
We had intercourse on that day without knowing it was her ovulation day.
We are usually very careful and do not have sex frequently.
We used a condom throughout the entire act, ensuring that it was put on during erection and that there was no air inside before ejaculation.
I withdrew before ejaculation, and the semen was contained within the condom to avoid any risk.
Afterward, I went to the bathroom, took a hot shower, and thoroughly washed my private parts with soap and body wash, including the glans and the entire area.
I also urinated and washed my hands carefully, then dried myself completely.
After that, I used a new condom for a second round of intercourse while in an erect state.
Given this situation, what is the likelihood of pregnancy? Can semen be killed or cleaned off by contact with soap and hot water at temperatures of 37-40 degrees Celsius? Three days after the intercourse, my girlfriend experienced a dull pain and swelling in her lower abdomen, which has raised concerns about early pregnancy symptoms or potential internal injuries.
Is it possible that there is a risk of a ruptured corpus luteum? Thank you, doctor.

Neng Shui Er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is generally unlikely to become pregnant.
However, if you are still experiencing discomfort and have concerns, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/26

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant after cleaning up post-intercourse with a condom, it's important to consider several factors related to sexual health, contraception, and the biological processes involved in conception.

Firstly, from your description, it seems that you and your girlfriend took several precautions during intercourse. You used a condom throughout the sexual act, which is one of the most effective methods of preventing pregnancy when used correctly. The fact that you ensured the condom was securely in place before ejaculation and that you withdrew immediately after ejaculation further reduces the risk of sperm leakage and potential pregnancy.

Now, regarding your concerns about cleaning up after intercourse, it’s essential to understand that while washing the genital area with soap and warm water can help maintain hygiene, it does not significantly affect the likelihood of pregnancy if sperm has already been deposited in the vagina. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and washing the external genitalia does not remove sperm that may have entered the vagina during intercourse. Therefore, while cleaning is important for hygiene, it does not eliminate the risk of pregnancy if sperm was present.

You mentioned that your girlfriend experienced some discomfort three days after intercourse, which has raised concerns about early pregnancy symptoms or potential injury. Early pregnancy symptoms can sometimes include abdominal discomfort, but they can also be attributed to other factors such as ovulation, menstrual cycle changes, or even gastrointestinal issues. If your girlfriend is concerned about pregnancy or any pain she is experiencing, it is advisable for her to take a pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.

As for the concern about the possibility of a ruptured corpus luteum, this typically occurs in the context of ovarian cysts or other reproductive health issues and is not directly related to the act of intercourse or cleaning afterward. If she is experiencing significant pain or swelling, it is crucial for her to seek medical attention to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while your cleaning routine is commendable for maintaining hygiene, it does not significantly impact the risk of pregnancy after using a condom. The most effective way to prevent pregnancy is to use contraception consistently and correctly. If there are any concerns about potential pregnancy or health issues following intercourse, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice and conduct any necessary examinations to ensure both partners' health and well-being.

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