Could I Be Pregnant? Risks After External Contact

Could I become pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
I had genital contact with my girlfriend, and my penis rubbed against her externally.
Her last menstrual period started on July 20, and she hasn't gotten her period yet this August 20.
Is there a possibility that she could be pregnant?

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/22

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Based on your description, if it was only external and there was no penetration, under normal circumstances, as long as sperm did not enter the female body, pregnancy should not occur.
There are many reasons for a missed period, such as stress and anxiety, which can also cause irregular menstruation.
If you are concerned, you can see a doctor or take a home pregnancy test.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/08/22

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy after external contact, it's essential to understand the mechanics of conception and the timing of ovulation in relation to the menstrual cycle. Based on your description, you had genital contact with your girlfriend, and her last menstrual period started on July 20. If her cycle is regular, she would likely have ovulated around August 3 to August 5, assuming a typical 28-day cycle.
Since you mentioned that her next expected period was due on August 20 and it has not yet arrived, there are a few factors to consider regarding the risk of pregnancy.
1. Timing of Ovulation: If her cycle is indeed regular and she ovulated around the beginning of August, the window for conception would have been around that time. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if intercourse occurred during her fertile window, there could be a risk of pregnancy. However, if the contact was external and there was no ejaculation inside the vagina, the risk is significantly lower.

2. Pre-ejaculate Fluid: It's important to note that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, but the quantity is typically much lower than that found in ejaculate. If there was no direct ejaculation and only external contact occurred, the likelihood of sperm being transferred to the vaginal canal is minimal, but not impossible.

3. Symptoms of Pregnancy: If your girlfriend is experiencing symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, or fatigue, these could be early signs of pregnancy. However, they can also be attributed to other factors, such as hormonal changes or stress. The best way to confirm pregnancy is through a home pregnancy test, which can be taken after a missed period for the most accurate results.

4. Waiting for the Period: Since her period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test. If the test is negative and her period does not arrive within a week, she should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Irregularities in the menstrual cycle can occur due to various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, or changes in lifestyle.

5. Future Precautions: If you and your girlfriend are concerned about the risk of pregnancy in the future, consider discussing reliable contraceptive methods. Barrier methods, such as condoms, can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from external contact is low, it is not entirely absent. The best course of action is to wait for her period and take a pregnancy test if it does not arrive. If you have further concerns or if she experiences unusual symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a good step. Remember, open communication with your partner about sexual health and contraception is crucial for both of your peace of mind.

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