Pregnancy Risks: Unprotected Intercourse and Cycle Irregularities - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Probability of Pregnancy


Your girlfriend has an irregular menstrual cycle, with her period starting on February 5th.
Based on her cycle, the fertile window may be around this time.
You had intercourse for the first time on the morning of February 16th using a condom, and the second time without a condom but did not ejaculate inside.

The likelihood of pregnancy in this scenario depends on various factors, including the timing of ovulation and the presence of sperm.
Since you did not ejaculate inside during the second intercourse, the risk of pregnancy is lower, but it is not zero.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it may be advisable for her to consider taking emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.
It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

321, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/16

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


If you're feeling uneasy, you might consider taking emergency contraception.
Generally, emergency contraception should be taken within 48 hours.
The chances of pregnancy are low, but it's best to use preventive measures beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late, it's advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/02/16

More Info


When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy, especially in the context of unprotected intercourse and irregular menstrual cycles, there are several factors to consider. Your girlfriend's irregular cycle can complicate the assessment of her fertile window, which is crucial in determining the likelihood of pregnancy.

Firstly, it's important to understand the menstrual cycle. A typical cycle lasts about 28 days, but cycles can range from 21 to 35 days. Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the start of the next period. In your girlfriend's case, if her cycle is irregular, predicting ovulation becomes more challenging. Irregular cycles can lead to unpredictable ovulation, which can increase the risk of pregnancy if unprotected intercourse occurs.

In your situation, you mentioned that your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on February 5. If we assume a cycle length of around 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around February 19. Engaging in unprotected intercourse on February 16, just a few days before the expected ovulation, does pose a risk for pregnancy, especially since sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days.

Regarding the use of condoms, while they significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they are not 100% effective. The fact that you had one encounter with a condom and another without raises the question of whether any sperm could have been deposited, even if you withdrew before ejaculation. Pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, which adds to the risk of pregnancy.

Given these factors, the likelihood of pregnancy cannot be ruled out entirely. If your girlfriend is concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, taking emergency contraception (commonly known as the "morning-after pill") can be an option. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after.

In summary, considering your girlfriend's irregular cycle and the timing of your unprotected intercourse, there is a possibility of pregnancy. If she is experiencing any symptoms of pregnancy, such as a missed period, nausea, or breast tenderness, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Additionally, if she is concerned about the risk of pregnancy, discussing the option of emergency contraception with a healthcare professional would be prudent.

In the future, if you and your girlfriend are sexually active, it may be beneficial to discuss and establish a reliable method of contraception to prevent unintended pregnancies and ensure both partners feel secure in their sexual health.

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