Could I Be Pregnant? Risks After Safe Sex Practices

Is it possible to get pregnant this way?

Hello doctor, today on 11/5 I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend (we used a condom correctly throughout).
It lasted about 30 minutes, and when I ejaculated, I pulled out and came outside.
However, at the end, I noticed a lot of white, sticky substance on the outside of my girlfriend's genital area.
Could you tell me if that is mine or hers? After we finished, I went to the bathroom to check the condom for any breaks.
I wiped it dry with tissue and squeezed it a few times, and there was no leakage.
After checking, I washed my hands several times and then touched my girlfriend again twice, each time for no more than 10 minutes (with some penetration).
My girlfriend sometimes has irregular periods due to staying up late, and her last period was around the end of last month.
If her period does not come next month, is there a possibility that she could be pregnant?

Ww, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/07

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the failure rate of using condoms for contraception is over 5%, which is less reliable compared to other methods.
It is recommended that if your menstrual period is more than a week late, you should check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2023/11/07

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy after engaging in sexual activity, especially when using condoms, it's essential to consider several factors. Based on your description, you and your girlfriend practiced safe sex by using a condom throughout the entire duration of intercourse, which is a significant step in preventing both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Firstly, let's address the concern about the white, sticky substance you observed on your girlfriend's genital area after ejaculation. This substance is most likely semen, which is the fluid that contains sperm. Since you mentioned that you withdrew before ejaculation and that the condom did not leak, the risk of pregnancy from this encounter is quite low. Condoms are designed to be highly effective when used correctly, and they have a failure rate of about 2% with perfect use and about 15% with typical use. Given that you checked the condom for leaks and found none, it seems you took the necessary precautions.

However, it's important to note that while the risk of pregnancy is low, it is not zero. If the condom were to have a microscopic tear or if there was any pre-ejaculate fluid (which can contain sperm) that came into contact with your girlfriend's vagina, there could still be a risk of pregnancy. Pre-ejaculate, or pre-cum, is a fluid released before ejaculation that can contain sperm, although the concentration is typically lower than in ejaculate.

Regarding your girlfriend's menstrual cycle, if she has irregular periods, it may be challenging to predict when her next period will occur. If her period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally reliable and can provide results as early as the first day of a missed period. If she is concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, taking a test would be a prudent step.

In addition to pregnancy concerns, it’s also worth considering the importance of regular STI testing, especially if there are any uncertainties about previous sexual partners. While you practiced safe sex, it’s always a good idea to maintain open communication with your partner about sexual health and to get tested regularly.

If your girlfriend's period does not arrive and she tests positive for pregnancy, it would be essential for both of you to discuss your options and consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional. They can provide support and information on the next steps, whether that involves continuing the pregnancy or discussing other options.

In summary, based on your description of the sexual encounter, the risk of pregnancy appears to be low due to the correct use of a condom. However, if your girlfriend's period is late, taking a pregnancy test would be the best course of action. Open communication about sexual health and regular check-ups can help both of you feel more secure in your sexual practices.

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