Question

Hi. I am 18 weeks and 5 days pregnant. My due date is July 21, 2007. My last menstrual period was October 15, 2006, therefore I conceived around October 29,2006. I have had two ultrasounds, both confirming the due date, one at 14 weeks and one at 18 weeks and 2 days. I have been with my boyfriend for three years. On July 22, 2006 I was with someone other than my boyfriend, only one time. At the time I had forgotten my pills 3 days in a row so we used withdrawal and then two days later I took the Morning After Pill, just in case. I started my period about 4 weeks later. It was quite heavy and I also had some breakthrough bleeding later on that month after that period had ended. I haven't been with him since, and on September 9, I quite taking the pill altogether. I had a normal menstrual cycle on October 15, it was pretty heavy also and lasted about 5 days. I conceived around October 29th and have had no bleeding what-so-ever since my last period. The difference between when I conceived and when I was with the other man was about three months and 7 days. I'm pretty sure that sperm only live days and not weeks, certainly not months, and that it would not be possible for sperm from intercourse from 3 months ago to still be around at the time of conception. I know it is somewhat far-fetched, but I have been having nightmares and racing thoughts thinking of what if that were the out come, it would be devastating for many people. I dont have anyone else to confide in and I wanted to ask an expert rather that just anyone.

Can you please answer my question if it is possible that the man I was with on July 22, 2006 could be the father of my child conceived on or around October 29,2006. Thank you very much.

Niki

Answer

Dear Niki,

I can understand why you are worried. Sperm lives 3-5 days in cervical mucus. It is possible that you might have had a pregnancy resulting from genital contact even with withdrawal in July of 2006, but it is NOT possible for that man's sperm to have lived beyound the time of your mucus cycle.

During this time take the opportunity to learn about the natural signs your body gives you each day of your cycle. Learn Natural Family Planning from one of the teachers listed on this website or to a link in your area. The benefits are freeing and healthy. You and the father of your baby need the love and bonding that will commit you to each other and your child.

My best to you.

Judy Wilmurt

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