Pregnancy Risks: Condom Use and Fertility Concerns

Probability of Pregnancy

Hello, doctor.
After every time I have intercourse with my girlfriend while using a condom, I notice a white liquid in other areas of the condom.
Is this because semen has leaked out, or is it due to friction with the latex? Also, if the condom is put on inside out and I wipe it with tissue, is there still a risk of pregnancy? My girlfriend's last menstrual period started on January 6, and we had intercourse on January 20.

Zzd, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/22

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the failure rate of contraception using condoms alone is over 5%, which is less reliable compared to other methods.
Therefore, it is generally not recommended to rely solely on condoms for contraception.
If your menstrual period is more than a week late, it is advisable to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2022/01/22

More Info

When it comes to understanding pregnancy risks associated with condom use, it's essential to consider several factors that can influence the effectiveness of condoms as a contraceptive method. Condoms are generally a reliable form of birth control when used correctly, but there are instances where their effectiveness can be compromised.

Firstly, if you notice that there is semen present in areas of the condom that are not directly at the tip, it could be due to a few reasons. One possibility is that the condom may have been improperly fitted or used, allowing some semen to escape. Another reason could be that the condom was not rolled down all the way or was damaged during use, which can lead to leakage. It's crucial to ensure that the condom is put on correctly and that it fits snugly to minimize the risk of breakage or slippage.

Regarding your question about using a condom inside out and then wiping it with a tissue, this practice is not advisable. If a condom is put on the wrong way, it may have come into contact with pre-ejaculate fluid, which can contain sperm. Even if you wipe it, there is still a risk that sperm could remain on the condom, and using it in that state could lead to unintended pregnancy. Therefore, if a condom has been used incorrectly, it is best to discard it and use a new one to ensure maximum protection.

In your specific case, since your girlfriend had her menstrual period on January 6 and you had sexual intercourse on January 20, it is important to consider her menstrual cycle. Typically, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the start of the next period, which means she may have been close to her fertile window during your encounter. If the condom was used correctly and did not break, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced, but it is not entirely eliminated.

If there are concerns about potential pregnancy, it may be wise for your girlfriend to take a home pregnancy test if her next period is late. Additionally, if there are any worries about contraceptive failure, discussing emergency contraception options with a healthcare provider could be beneficial.

In terms of resources, there are many educational websites and books available that discuss contraceptive methods, their effectiveness, and how to use them properly. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) provides valuable information on reproductive health, including contraception. Websites like Planned Parenthood also offer comprehensive resources on birth control methods, including condoms, and tips for their effective use.

In conclusion, while condoms are a reliable form of contraception, their effectiveness can be compromised if not used correctly. It's essential to follow the instructions for use carefully and to be aware of the timing of ovulation in relation to the menstrual cycle. If there are any doubts or concerns about pregnancy, consulting a healthcare professional is always a prudent step.

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Hello, doctor. After every time my girlfriend and I have intercourse while using a condom, there is a white liquid in other areas of the condom. Is this because semen has leaked out, or is it due to friction with the latex? Also, if the condom is put on inside out and then wiped ...

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