Here is a clear explanation of how pregnancy can occur even without ejaculation inside:
How Pregnancy Can Happen Without Ejaculation Inside
1. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) - the most likely reason
Before ejaculation, the penis releases a fluid called pre-ejaculate (pre-cum). Its job is to neutralize the acidity in the urethra to help sperm survive. The key point: pre-cum can contain live sperm in some men.
- Studies show that sperm is found in the pre-cum of roughly 16-41% of men
- This sperm comes from leftover sperm in the urethra from a previous ejaculation
- Even a small amount of sperm in the vagina during the fertile window is enough for pregnancy
So even if he did not ejaculate inside her, sperm from pre-cum may have entered the vagina during intercourse.
2. The withdrawal method is not 100% reliable
What you're describing is essentially the withdrawal (pull-out) method. With typical real-world use, this method has a ~18-22% failure rate per year - meaning roughly 1 in 5 couples using it as their only contraception will see a pregnancy within a year.
3. Timing and ovulation
Sex on June 29 could fall within or near a woman's fertile window (typically the 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation). Sperm can survive inside the reproductive tract for up to 5 days, so even a tiny amount of sperm from pre-cum is enough if timing aligns with ovulation.
4. Other possibilities
- Ejaculation near (not inside) the vaginal opening - sperm can travel
- Partial withdrawal that was too late
Bottom line
You do NOT need full ejaculation inside the vagina for pregnancy to occur. Pre-cum alone can carry enough sperm to fertilize an egg, especially during the fertile window. The pull-out method is not a reliable form of contraception. For the future, using a condom consistently from start to finish - or hormonal contraception - is far more effective.
If a pregnancy has been confirmed, it is worth speaking with a doctor or midwife about next steps and options.