Missed Period: Could It Be Pregnancy After External Contact?

Missed menstruation?

The last menstrual period started on July 27.
I had external genital rubbing with my boyfriend on August 17 and 18, but there was no penetration and the hymen was not broken.
This month, I haven't experienced any pre-menstrual symptoms, and it's been three days since my expected period.
Could this be a sign of pregnancy? Thank you for your help.

OO, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/29

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your cycle, the date of intercourse does not seem to coincide with your ovulation period.
However, if this ovulation is irregular, it is still difficult to determine.
Additionally, there is a possibility of conception even without ejaculation, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
It is recommended to take a urine pregnancy test if your period is one week late.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/08/29

More Info

When it comes to missed periods and the possibility of pregnancy, it's essential to understand the various factors that can influence menstrual cycles and conception. Based on your description, you had your last menstrual period on July 27, and you engaged in external contact with your boyfriend on August 17 and 18. You mentioned that there was no penetration, and you are now three days late for your expected period.

First, let's address the possibility of pregnancy. While it is less likely to conceive from external contact, it is not entirely impossible. Sperm can potentially be transferred from the male's genital area to the female's vulva during external contact, especially if there was any ejaculation or pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) involved. Pre-ejaculatory fluid can contain sperm, although the concentration is typically lower than in ejaculate. If any sperm made its way into the vaginal canal, there is a chance of fertilization occurring, leading to pregnancy.

Given that you are three days late for your period, it would be prudent to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. If you take the test and it comes back positive, it would indicate that you are likely pregnant. If the test is negative and your period does not arrive, you may want to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

It's also important to consider other factors that could cause a missed period. Stress, changes in weight, hormonal imbalances, and medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can all affect your menstrual cycle. If you have experienced significant stress or changes in your lifestyle, these could also contribute to a delayed period.

If you continue to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle or have concerns about your reproductive health, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, including blood tests and possibly an ultrasound, to determine the cause of your missed period and assess your overall reproductive health.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy from external contact is lower, it is not impossible. Taking a home pregnancy test is a good next step to determine if you are pregnant. If you have further concerns or if your period remains absent, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for personalized advice and care.

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