Can You Get Pregnant from Pre-Ejaculate? Your Risks - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Probability of Pregnancy


My girlfriend's expected menstruation was on February 1, and we had sexual intercourse on January 31.
Although I did not ejaculate inside, I would like to know if there is a possibility of pregnancy.

Xiao Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/02

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation does not occur during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2023/02/02

More Info


Yes, it is possible to get pregnant from pre-ejaculate fluid, also known as pre-cum. Pre-ejaculate is a clear fluid that is released from the penis before ejaculation. This fluid can contain sperm, which can lead to pregnancy if it comes into contact with the vagina.

During sexual arousal, the Cowper's glands (bulbourethral glands) produce pre-ejaculate fluid. While the primary purpose of this fluid is to lubricate the urethra and neutralize any acidity in the urethra, it can also carry sperm that may have been left in the urethra from a previous ejaculation. Therefore, even if you did not ejaculate inside your girlfriend, there is still a risk of pregnancy if pre-ejaculate fluid comes into contact with her vagina.

The likelihood of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is generally lower than from full ejaculation, but it is not zero. Studies suggest that about 4% of couples using withdrawal (pulling out) as a contraceptive method will experience an unintended pregnancy within a year. This statistic highlights the risks associated with relying solely on withdrawal as a form of birth control.

In your case, since you had sexual intercourse on January 31 and your girlfriend's expected period was on February 1, it is important to consider her menstrual cycle. If she has a regular cycle, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of her next period. If her cycle is 28 days long, she would likely be ovulating around January 17-20. However, sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, meaning that if she ovulated shortly after your encounter, there is a possibility of pregnancy.

If your girlfriend's period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, she should consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is lower than from ejaculation, it is still a possibility. If you are concerned about unintended pregnancy, it may be beneficial to discuss contraceptive options with your girlfriend to prevent similar situations in the future. Options include hormonal birth control, condoms, or other methods that can provide more reliable protection against pregnancy.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low. It is advised to take proper contraceptive measures during sexual activity. Wishing you good health.

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Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.

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Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand. Do not rely on the safe period. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.

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