Could I Be Pregnant? Risks After Protected Intercourse

Can I get pregnant?

I would like to ask if there is a significant chance of pregnancy if I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend on January 31st, using a condom throughout the entire act without ejaculation, but we did not check if the condom was intact.
She is expected to arrive on February 16th, but her period has not come yet, and she is experiencing some breast tenderness.
Thank you, doctor.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/16

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the probability of pregnancy should be low.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/02/16

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy after protected intercourse, it's essential to consider several factors, including the effectiveness of condoms, the timing of ovulation, and any potential signs of pregnancy.

First and foremost, using condoms correctly is one of the most effective methods of preventing pregnancy. Condoms, when used properly, have a failure rate of about 2% with perfect use and about 18% with typical use. This means that while they are highly effective, there is still a small chance of failure due to improper use, breakage, or slippage. In your case, you mentioned that you had intercourse on January 31 with a condom and that there was no ejaculation inside the condom. This significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, especially if the condom was intact throughout the act.

Regarding your girlfriend's expected menstrual cycle, if her period was due on February 16 and has not yet arrived, it could be a cause for concern. However, menstrual cycles can be irregular for various reasons, including stress, hormonal changes, or other health factors. The fact that she is experiencing breast tenderness or swelling could be a sign of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) rather than pregnancy. Breast changes can occur due to hormonal fluctuations that happen in the menstrual cycle.

To assess the risk of pregnancy more accurately, consider the timing of ovulation. Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period in a regular cycle. If your girlfriend has a regular cycle of around 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around February 2. Since you had intercourse on January 31, it was just before her ovulation window, which does increase the risk of pregnancy slightly, but the use of a condom still provides significant protection.

If your girlfriend's period does not arrive within a week or so of its expected date, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are quite accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, she should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy exists, especially given the timing of your intercourse relative to her ovulation, the use of a condom significantly reduces that risk. If your girlfriend's period is late, it is best to take a pregnancy test for clarity. Additionally, if either of you has concerns about sexual health or contraception, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide further personalized advice and options.

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