Pregnancy Risks After Protected Intercourse: Your Questions Answered - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to assessing the risk of pregnancy after protected intercourse, several factors need to be considered, including the timing of the menstrual cycle, the effectiveness of the contraceptive method used, and any potential exposure to sperm during the sexual activity.

In your case, you mentioned that you had intercourse with your girlfriend on May 22, using a condom throughout the encounter and confirming that the condom did not break. This is a crucial point because condoms, when used correctly, are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, with a typical use effectiveness rate of about 85% to 98%. The fact that you also changed the condom and ensured it was intact further reduces the risk of sperm exposure.

Your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on May 7, which places her in a cycle where ovulation typically occurs around 14 days after the first day of her last period, depending on the length of her cycle. If her cycle is regular and approximately 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around May 21. Since you had intercourse the following day, this timing does coincide with her fertile window, which generally spans from about five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation itself. However, since you used a condom and confirmed it was intact, the risk of pregnancy remains low.

You also mentioned that you touched the tip of your penis and then used your fingers on her. While it is theoretically possible for pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) to contain sperm, the likelihood of pregnancy from this type of contact is significantly lower than from direct ejaculation. If there was no ejaculation and the condom was used properly, the risk of pregnancy is minimal.

In summary, given that you used a condom correctly and there was no ejaculation, the risk of pregnancy from this encounter is very low. However, if your girlfriend has irregular periods or if there are any concerns about potential pregnancy, it may be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test if her next period is late.
For future reference, if you or your partner have concerns about pregnancy or contraceptive methods, consider consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide information on various contraceptive options, including hormonal birth control, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and emergency contraception, which can further reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. Additionally, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor reproductive health and address any concerns regarding menstrual irregularities or contraceptive effectiveness.