Can You Get Pregnant from Pre-Ejaculate? the Risks

Can I get pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
About an hour ago, I engaged in sexual activity with my girlfriend.
I stimulated her clitoris with my hand, and my penis was near her vaginal opening without a condom.
I felt sexual arousal but did not ejaculate; however, I suspect that pre-ejaculate fluid may have been released (which I immediately moved away from the vaginal opening).
Afterwards, I noticed a white fluid on my leg.
Could this lead to pregnancy? Should I take emergency contraception?

B, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/13

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, it is best to use emergency contraception as a remedy; however, its effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
It is recommended that if your period is more than a week late, you should still check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2023/05/13

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 during sexual arousal, and it can contain sperm. While the concentration of sperm in pre-ejaculate is generally lower than in ejaculate, there is still a risk of pregnancy if sperm is present.

In your situation, since you mentioned that there was some fluid that may have come from your penis and that it was near your girlfriend's vaginal opening, there is a possibility that sperm could have been transferred. Even if you did not ejaculate, the presence of pre-ejaculate fluid can still pose a risk for pregnancy.
If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, taking emergency contraception (commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill") can be an option. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after. It works primarily by delaying ovulation, which can prevent a potential pregnancy from occurring.

In addition to the risk of pregnancy, it is also important to consider sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you are not using condoms, there is a risk of transmitting or contracting STIs, which can have significant health implications. Therefore, it is advisable to discuss STI testing with your partner and consider using barrier methods, such as condoms, in the future to reduce these risks.

If you have any further concerns or if your girlfriend experiences any unusual symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide you with more information about emergency contraception, STI testing, and other reproductive health matters.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is lower than from ejaculate, it is still a possibility. If you are concerned about potential pregnancy, consider taking emergency contraception and consult with a healthcare provider for further advice.

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