Pregnancy and Menstruation: Myths and Facts Explained

Pregnancy and Menstruation

The menstrual cycle is 31 days, and menstruation lasts about 7 days without irregularities.
On the fifth day of menstruation, there was some foreplay, and my hand came into contact with pre-ejaculate fluid before touching the vulva.
There was a slight penetration (and the amount of pre-ejaculate was really minimal).
I've heard that the sperm count in pre-ejaculate is low, right? It probably doesn't survive for long either, does it? The next day, there was a bit of blood, which is definitely menstrual blood, right? I've read online that during menstruation, ovulation does not occur, and pregnancy is not possible.
Is that true? Or are there other possibilities? I couldn't find similar situations online, so I'm seeking a doctor's help for clarification.

Yan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/11

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I apologize for not being able to diagnose based on your description.
It could be related to menstrual bleeding.
If you continue to experience discomfort, I recommend seeing a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/01/11

More Info

Understanding pregnancy and menstruation can be complex, especially when considering the various myths and facts surrounding these topics. Let's break down your concerns regarding the menstrual cycle, the possibility of pregnancy, and the implications of pre-ejaculate fluid.

Firstly, a typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 35 days for many women. You mentioned that your cycle is 31 days long and that your menstruation lasts around 7 days without irregularities. This is within the normal range. The menstrual cycle is divided into several phases: the follicular phase, ovulation, the luteal phase, and menstruation. Ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, which would be around day 14 in a 28-day cycle, but this can vary based on individual cycles.

Regarding your question about pre-ejaculate fluid (often referred to as pre-cum), it is true that this fluid can contain sperm, although the quantity is generally lower than in ejaculate. The presence of sperm in pre-ejaculate is not guaranteed, and the concentration can vary significantly. While some studies suggest that pre-ejaculate may contain viable sperm, the amount is typically much less than in ejaculate, and the chances of conception from pre-ejaculate are lower compared to full ejaculation.

You also expressed concern about the possibility of pregnancy after having contact with pre-ejaculate fluid and whether it could lead to bleeding the following day. It's important to note that if you were on your menstrual cycle, particularly if you were on day five, the likelihood of ovulation occurring is very low. Menstruation is characterized by the shedding of the uterine lining, and during this time, ovulation does not occur. Therefore, the chances of becoming pregnant while menstruating are minimal.

As for the bleeding you experienced the day after the contact, if you are certain it is menstrual blood, it is likely just a continuation of your menstrual cycle. However, if the bleeding is unusual for you or if you experience any other symptoms, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, while there is a small possibility of sperm being present in pre-ejaculate, the likelihood of pregnancy occurring from the scenario you described—especially during menstruation—is very low. The bleeding you observed is likely part of your menstrual cycle. If you have further concerns about your menstrual cycle, potential pregnancy, or any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and reassurance. They can provide you with more detailed information based on your individual health history and circumstances.

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