TeenHealthFX - Answers - Semen Spread From Hand To Condom

Pregnancy: Could I Be Pregnant? / Question
Published: October 17, 2001

Dear TeenHealthFX,

My girlfriend and I recently had protected sex. Before engaging in sex she used lotion and was stimulating me with her hand. After stopping this activity, I would say there was about three minutes before we actually engaged in sexual intercourse. We used a spermicide condom. But she placed the penis inside of her using the hand she was using to stimulate me. Is there a chance she is pregnant from the contact her hand had with my penis and the contact her hand had with the outside of the condom? I did not ejaculate but I'm concerned she still got some sperm on her hand, which got onto the outside of the condom.

Signed: Semen Spread From Hand To Condom - Pregnant?

Dear Semen Spread From Hand To Condom - Pregnant?,

Even though you did not ejaculate you are right to believe that there was some "pre-cum" (sperm) on the tip of your penis. If your girlfriend got the sperm on her hand, transferred it to the condom then placed it inside of her, then there is a slight risk of pregnancy. To understand why, see TeenHealthFX's response to Pregnant From Fingers After Masturbating. Anytime you or your girlfriend gets semen on your hands you have to be very careful not to get sperm near the vaginal opening.

Having used a spermicide condom is in your favor because of its ability to kill sperm, but spermicide alone is not 100% effective against pregnancy. Spermicide is added to condoms as extra protection in case the condom breaks or has a leak. We recommend using additional spermicide, either foam or suppository, to provide further protection.

Also, you mentioned that your girlfriend used a lotion on her hand and your penis. This has TeenHealthFX concerned. Certain types of lotions can contain oil and oil-based products that could break down the latex on the condoms. This can cause the condom to break and lose its' effectiveness. If you want to use a lotion and then a condom, try using a water-based lubricant, like KY Jelly.

Since you are concerned about your girlfriend being pregnant, you and she should go to your local teen health clinic or Planned Parenthood for testing and information. If you live in northern New Jersey, the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health would be able to offer you the guidance you need. For an appointment call 973.889.6350.

Your question is an excellent example of how much responsibility comes with having sex. You took responsibility by using a spermicide condom but there still were other risk factors involved. You are to be applauded for realizing that there may be a problem and seeking out information.

Signed: TeenHealthFX