Can You Get Pregnant? Common Questions About Fertility Risks - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Can I get pregnant?


Hello doctor, I would like to ask some questions.
On May 29, a male was wearing athletic shorts and underwear, while a female was wearing safety shorts and underwear.
The female's hand touched my shorts, which were slightly damp.
After that, the female touched her own safety shorts.
Pregnancy tests were conducted 14 days and 18 days later, both showing a negative result.
Additionally, a pregnancy test was conducted on the night of the 59th day after the incident, which also showed a negative result.

1.
Can semen and secretions cause pregnancy through clothing?
2.
Is it accurate to take a pregnancy test on the night of the 59th day without using first morning urine?
3.
How long after the incident can a pregnancy test be taken for accurate results?
4.
How can one differentiate between menstrual bleeding and early pregnancy bleeding?

j, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/27

Dr. Lin Xinwang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: 1.
Prostatic fluid and semen also contain sperm.
2.
It is more appropriate to test 21 days after sexual intercourse, or to test if menstruation is delayed.
3.
Pregnancy can be tested 14 days later; alternatively, a second test can be done after 21 days.

Reply Date: 2023/08/27

More Info


When it comes to understanding fertility risks and the possibility of pregnancy, several factors need to be considered. Let's address your questions one by one, providing clarity based on medical knowledge and common practices.

1. Can semen and secretions through clothing lead to pregnancy?
The likelihood of becoming pregnant from semen or vaginal secretions that have come into contact with clothing is extremely low. For pregnancy to occur, sperm must be deposited in the vaginal canal, where it can travel through the cervix and into the uterus to fertilize an egg. The clothing barrier, such as pants and underwear, significantly reduces the chances of sperm reaching the vagina. Additionally, sperm are quite fragile and do not survive long outside the body, especially on fabric. Therefore, while it is theoretically possible for sperm to be transferred in a very specific scenario, it is highly unlikely in the situation you described.

2. Is a pregnancy test taken 59 days after the event accurate if not done with morning urine?
Pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine, which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. While morning urine is often recommended for testing because it is typically more concentrated, tests taken at other times of the day can still be accurate, especially if it has been several weeks since the potential conception. Since you tested 59 days after the event, if you received a negative result, it is very likely accurate. If you have concerns, you may consider consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

3. How long after potential conception should one wait to take a pregnancy test for accurate results?
Most home pregnancy tests can provide reliable results about one week after a missed period, which is typically around two weeks after conception. This timing allows for the hormone hCG to reach detectable levels in the urine. If you test too early, you may receive a false negative result. If you suspect pregnancy and receive a negative result, waiting a few days to retest can be beneficial.

4. How to differentiate between menstrual bleeding and early pregnancy bleeding?
Early pregnancy bleeding, often referred to as implantation bleeding, can occur when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This type of bleeding is usually lighter in color (often pink or brown) and much lighter in flow compared to a typical menstrual period. Menstrual bleeding, on the other hand, tends to be red and can vary in flow from light to heavy. If you experience bleeding and are unsure whether it is menstrual or related to pregnancy, consider taking a pregnancy test if your period is late or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, based on your description, the chances of pregnancy from the scenario you outlined are very low. If you have further concerns about your reproductive health or potential pregnancy, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and support. Understanding your body and being informed about reproductive health is crucial for making informed decisions regarding family planning and fertility.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant? Understanding Contraception and Fertility Risks

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, according to your method, there should be no risk of pregnancy. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant? Understanding Contraception and Fertility Risks


Understanding Your Chances of Getting Pregnant: Key Factors to Consider

Hello doctor, I am the inquirer #144001. Thank you for your response! I would like to ask again, what are the chances of becoming pregnant? Are they high?


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
There is almost no chance of pregnancy.

[Read More] Understanding Your Chances of Getting Pregnant: Key Factors to Consider


Understanding Pregnancy Risks: A Guide for Young Couples

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.


Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Based on your description, it is unlikely that you will become pregnant, as the key point is that the sperm did not come into contact with the genitalia. Dr. Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu City Hospital.

[Read More] Understanding Pregnancy Risks: A Guide for Young Couples


Can You Get Pregnant? Answers to Common Concerns About Contraception

Hello, doctor. The last time I had sexual intercourse was on October 2nd, and my period started on November 2nd and lasted for five days. My usual menstrual cycle is 31-35 days. It seems like my period in March is about to come (I just noticed a little bit of brown discharge). ...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Is there still a possibility of pregnancy? Answer: There is no possibility of pregnancy. 2. Is it possible that sperm accidentally survived in my body until the ovulation period in February and then fertilized? Answer: There is no possibility. 3. If my parents had intercou...

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant? Answers to Common Concerns About Contraception


Related FAQ

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Want To Get Pregnant

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Urology)

Am I Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

High-Risk Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Likelihood

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Sperm

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Preparing For Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Spontaneous Miscarriage

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)