Risk of Pregnancy from Incorrect Condom Use: Key Questions Answered

The probability of pregnancy when a condom is worn inside out?

Hello Dr.
Tsao, my girlfriend took an emergency contraceptive pill on May 8 (the second one this year).
Her menstruation started on May 29.
We had sexual intercourse on June 28, twice, using condoms throughout.
After the first time, I wiped with tissue, and during the second time, the condom was put on inside out and briefly touched the glans (I cleaned it well and there was no pre-ejaculatory fluid).
I then put the condom on correctly.
Based on previous observations, her menstrual cycle is about 32 days, but as of today (July 3), her period has not yet arrived.
I would like to ask the following three questions:
Q1: What is the likelihood of pregnancy?
Q2: Will the emergency contraceptive taken on May 8 affect the stability of her menstrual cycle this time?
Q3: How many days late can we consider her next period to be normal?

Mr. Kang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/03

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
You may want to wait another week or two, and if your period still hasn't arrived, it's advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2024/07/03

More Info

When it comes to the risk of pregnancy from incorrect condom use, there are several factors to consider, especially in the context of your specific situation. Let's address your questions one by one.

Q1: What is the likelihood of pregnancy?
The likelihood of pregnancy in your case seems relatively low, but it is not zero. You mentioned that you used a condom during intercourse, which is a reliable form of contraception when used correctly. However, the fact that the condom was put on incorrectly (i.e., inside out) raises some concerns. If there was any contact with pre-ejaculate fluid, there is a potential risk of pregnancy, albeit minimal.
Since your girlfriend took emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") on May 8, this would have significantly reduced the chances of pregnancy from any unprotected intercourse that occurred around that time. However, emergency contraception is not 100% effective, and its efficacy decreases the longer you wait to take it after unprotected intercourse.
Given that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is approximately 32 days, and considering that you had sexual intercourse on June 28, it is possible that her period may be delayed due to various factors, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, or the effects of the emergency contraception.
Q2: Will the emergency contraception taken on May 8 affect her menstrual cycle?
Yes, taking emergency contraception can affect the menstrual cycle. It can cause changes in the timing of the next period, making it earlier or later than expected. Some women experience irregularities in their cycles after taking the pill, including heavier or lighter bleeding. Since your girlfriend took emergency contraception, it is possible that this could be contributing to her delayed period.
Q3: How many days late can we consider a normal delay for her next period?
Typically, a menstrual cycle can vary from 21 to 35 days, and a delay of a few days is often considered normal. However, since your girlfriend's cycle is usually around 32 days, if her period has not arrived by around 5-7 days after the expected date, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test. If the test is positive, she should consult a healthcare provider for further guidance. If the test is negative and her period still does not arrive, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy seems low due to the use of condoms and emergency contraception, it is not entirely eliminated. The emergency contraception may have affected her menstrual cycle, leading to a delay. If her period does not arrive soon, taking a pregnancy test would be a prudent next step. Always remember that if there are any concerns about pregnancy or menstrual irregularities, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

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Hello, you should not be pregnant. Wishing you good health.