Could I Be Pregnant? Risks and Contraceptive Options

Q: Could I Be Pregnant? Risks and Contraceptive Options

Hello, the questioner： There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation does not occur during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. <br>Additionally, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%. <br>It is adv

Is it possible to get pregnant?

Hello Doctor: My partner's last menstrual period was around February 17.
We had sexual intercourse from March 15 to March 18, but I withdrew before ejaculation.
Additionally, she has been experiencing premenstrual symptoms, such as an increase in acne, but her period has not yet arrived.
I would like to ask how high the chances of pregnancy are in this situation.
Also, if we want to prevent pregnancy, is emergency contraception really harmful to the body? Thank you very much for your response!

Kris, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/20

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation does not occur during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
Additionally, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
It is advisable to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Many people mistakenly believe that emergency contraception is convenient and effective, leading to a bad habit of not using regular contraception and instead relying on taking an emergency contraceptive pill after each encounter.
Since emergency contraceptive pills primarily contain high doses of female hormones/progestins, they can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
Frequent use can not only trigger androgenic effects like oily skin and acne but also disrupt normal ovarian function, leading to irregular menstrual cycles.
If intimate encounters are frequent, it is recommended to adopt a regular method of contraception.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2016/03/20

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy, especially after engaging in sexual intercourse around the time of ovulation, it is essential to understand the factors that contribute to conception and the effectiveness of contraceptive methods. Based on your description, you had sexual relations with your partner during a time that could coincide with her ovulation, which typically occurs about 14 days before the start of her next menstrual period. The withdrawal method (pulling out) is not a reliable form of contraception, as pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, leading to a risk of pregnancy.

Given that your partner is experiencing premenstrual symptoms, such as increased acne, it is possible that her period is approaching. However, the absence of menstruation at this point could also indicate a potential pregnancy. The best way to confirm whether she is pregnant is to take a home pregnancy test, which is most accurate when taken after a missed period.

Regarding your question about emergency contraception, also known as the "morning-after pill," it is important to note that while it can be effective in preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, it is not intended for regular use. Emergency contraceptive pills work primarily by delaying ovulation and may also prevent fertilization or implantation. While they are generally safe for most women, some may experience side effects such as nausea, fatigue, or changes in their menstrual cycle. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if there are concerns about the impact on health.

If your partner is concerned about the possibility of pregnancy or the effects of emergency contraception, it would be beneficial for her to have a discussion with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on contraceptive options, including long-term methods such as hormonal birth control, intrauterine devices (IUDs), or barrier methods, which can be more effective than withdrawal.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the timing of your sexual activity, the best course of action is to take a pregnancy test if her period does not arrive soon. For future sexual encounters, consider discussing more reliable contraceptive methods with your partner to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

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