Concerns About Pregnancy After Intercourse During Menstrual Period

I am very worried about the possibility of becoming pregnant after having intercourse at the end of my menstrual period?

My girlfriend's menstrual cycle is about 28 days, but this time it seems to have come a bit early.
She started her period last Saturday (March 26) and it ended yesterday (April 2).
We had intercourse, but my girlfriend mentioned that she was still experiencing a little bit of her period, and we did not use a condom.
I did not ejaculate, and it lasted about 10 minutes.
Should we be particularly concerned about anything, such as the possibility of pregnancy? I later learned that having intercourse during menstruation can increase the risk of infections.
Should we take any precautions?

JOJO, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/03

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
I recommend that you quickly use emergency contraception (such as emergency contraceptive pills or an intrauterine device).
If your period is more than a week late, you should also take a urine test to check for pregnancy.
Additionally, if you have symptoms of infection, you should seek medical treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2016/04/03

More Info

When it comes to the concerns about pregnancy after intercourse during a menstrual period, it is important to understand the biological aspects of the menstrual cycle and the potential risks involved.

Firstly, the average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. Ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days after the first day of the last menstrual period. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if intercourse occurs close to the time of ovulation, there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, if intercourse happens during menstruation, the likelihood of pregnancy is generally lower, especially if the menstrual cycle is regular.

In your case, since your girlfriend's period started on March 26 and you had intercourse on April 2, this timing is still within her menstrual cycle. If her cycle is indeed 28 days, she would likely be nearing the end of her period and not close to ovulation. Therefore, the chances of pregnancy from this encounter are quite low, especially since you mentioned that there was no ejaculation.

However, it is crucial to consider other factors. Engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation can increase the risk of infections, particularly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis, due to the presence of blood and the potential for bacteria to enter the vaginal canal. The cervix is slightly more open during menstruation, which can also increase susceptibility to infections. To mitigate these risks, it is advisable to practice safe sex, even during menstruation. Using condoms can help reduce the risk of STIs and also minimize the chances of introducing bacteria into the vagina.

If your girlfriend experiences any unusual symptoms following intercourse, such as increased pain, unusual discharge, or fever, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider. Regular gynecological check-ups and open communication about sexual health are essential for maintaining reproductive health.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy from intercourse during menstruation is low, it is not impossible, especially with irregular cycles. It is always best to use protection to prevent both unintended pregnancies and infections. If there are any lingering concerns or if your girlfriend's cycle changes significantly, seeking advice from a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.

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