Pregnancy Chances: Can You Get Pregnant from Close Contact?

Probability of pregnancy: Will I get pregnant?

Hello doctor, my menstrual cycle is not very regular; sometimes it comes early, sometimes on time, and sometimes I don't have it for a month.
I downloaded two period tracking apps; one predicts my period will start on May 16, and the other on May 19.
Last month's period was from April 14 to April 20, but I haven't gotten my period this month yet.
I'm worried because on May 19, I had some intimate contact with my boyfriend (without sexual intercourse).
I touched his genitals but did not feel any moisture (discharge).
Later, he ejaculated, and some semen got on my hand.
After that, he went to the bathroom and washed his hands (just rinsed with water).
When he returned, he inserted his fingers into my vagina.

1.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?
2.
If he washed his hands very casually, is it possible that he washed away the sperm?
3.
If there was any discharge on his hands when he touched his genitals, and then he inserted his fingers into my vagina, is there a possibility of pregnancy?

zero zero, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/25

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low.
If you are still concerned, you might consider taking emergency contraception as a precaution.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/05/25

More Info

Understanding the chances of getting pregnant from close contact, especially when it involves indirect contact with semen, can be a complex issue. Let’s break down your concerns and provide a comprehensive understanding based on medical knowledge.

1. Pregnancy Chances from Close Contact: The likelihood of becoming pregnant from the scenario you described is generally low, but not impossible. Pregnancy typically occurs when sperm fertilizes an egg, which usually happens through direct vaginal intercourse. In your case, while there was no penetrative intercourse, there are a few factors to consider. If your boyfriend's fingers had any sperm on them from touching his genitals, and then he inserted his fingers into your vagina, there is a small chance that sperm could reach the cervix and potentially fertilize an egg. However, this scenario is less likely to result in pregnancy compared to direct ejaculation into the vagina.

2. Effectiveness of Washing Hands: If your boyfriend washed his hands after ejaculation, even if it was a quick rinse, it significantly reduces the likelihood of sperm being transferred to your vagina. Sperm can survive for a short time outside the body, but washing hands with soap and water is generally effective in removing sperm. If he did not wash thoroughly or if there was still some residual sperm on his fingers, there could be a minimal risk, but again, this is quite unlikely.

3. Presence of Pre-ejaculate (Pre-cum): If there was any pre-ejaculate fluid (which can occur before ejaculation), it may contain sperm. If your boyfriend had any pre-ejaculate on his hands and then inserted his fingers into your vagina, there is a potential risk of pregnancy, albeit still low. Pre-ejaculate can carry sperm, but the concentration is usually much lower than in ejaculate.

4. Irregular Menstrual Cycle: You mentioned that your menstrual cycle is irregular, which can complicate the situation. Irregular cycles can make it difficult to predict ovulation, the time when you are most fertile. If you are close to your ovulation period, the chances of pregnancy increase, but if you are not, the risk diminishes.

5. Testing for Pregnancy: If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If your period does not arrive as expected, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, consider consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In conclusion, while the risk of pregnancy from the scenario you described is low, it is not zero. If you are worried about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support. Understanding your body and menstrual cycle can also help you make informed decisions in the future regarding sexual health and contraception.

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