Concerns About Softness During Condom Use: Pregnancy Risks Explained

Q: Concerns About Softness During Condom Use: Pregnancy Risks Explained

Hello, the questioner： There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. <br>It is best to use emergency contraception as a remedy, but its effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of abo

The condom becomes soft?

Hello, doctor.
On the morning of March 12, I did a DIY session by myself.
Later that night, during intercourse with my girlfriend, I used a condom, but I felt a little bit of ejaculation during the process.
I noticed that my penis became soft, but I didn't take off the condom.
I then managed to get it hard again (though not fully hard) and continued until ejaculation.
My girlfriend is expected to get her period on March 21.

1.
I would like to ask if there is a possibility of pregnancy in this situation.
2.
Is there a need to take emergency contraception?
3.
If my girlfriend gets her period next week, can we be assured that she is not pregnant?

Jiang Sen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/13

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
It is best to use emergency contraception as a remedy, but its effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
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: 2023/03/13

More Info

When it comes to concerns about potential pregnancy risks associated with condom use, it's essential to understand the mechanics of contraception and the factors that can influence its effectiveness. Based on your description, let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
The primary purpose of a condom is to act as a barrier to prevent sperm from entering the vagina during intercourse. If the condom was used correctly throughout the sexual encounter, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, you mentioned that you felt a slight release of semen during the encounter, which raises concerns. If the condom did not break or slip off, the likelihood of pregnancy remains low, but not zero. Sperm can sometimes escape if there is a failure in the condom's integrity or if it is not used properly.
2. Is there a need for emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy due to the incident you described, it may be prudent to consider taking emergency contraception, especially if you are within the appropriate time frame (typically within 72 to 120 hours after intercourse, depending on the type of EC). However, if the condom was intact and you did not have direct exposure to sperm, the necessity for EC may be less critical.

3. Can I relax if my girlfriend's period comes next week?
If your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is regular and she gets her period as expected, it is generally a good sign that she is not pregnant. However, it is important to note that some women may experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles due to stress, hormonal changes, or other factors. If her period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not she is pregnant.

In addition to these points, it’s crucial to consider the following:
- Condom Use: Always ensure that condoms are used correctly. This includes checking the expiration date, ensuring the package is intact, and using lubrication if necessary to prevent breakage.
- Communication: Open communication with your partner about contraception and sexual health is vital. Discussing concerns and preferences can help both partners feel more secure.

- Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider for sexual health check-ups can provide additional reassurance and education about contraception options.

- Understanding Fertility: Familiarizing yourself with your partner's menstrual cycle can also help in understanding the risk of pregnancy. Knowing when ovulation occurs can assist in making informed decisions about sexual activity.

In conclusion, while the risk of pregnancy in your situation appears to be low, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you have further concerns or if your girlfriend's period does not arrive as expected, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide clarity and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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