Can You Get Pregnant After Using Condoms and Birth Control?

Can I get pregnant?

Your girlfriend had her period on March 13, and then you had intercourse on March 24 using a condom and taking emergency contraception.
However, her period returned just four days later, which is almost 15 days earlier than expected.
Given that you used both a condom and emergency contraception, the likelihood of pregnancy is very low.
However, if there are any concerns about her menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Hsu Wen-bin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/13

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
My girlfriend had her period on March 13, and we had intercourse on March 24 (with a condom and taking emergency contraception).
Is there a chance of pregnancy? Answer: Since we had intercourse on March 24 (with a condom and taking emergency contraception), it is unlikely that she would become pregnant.
2.
Four days after intercourse, her period unexpectedly returned, almost 15 days early.
Answer: It is advisable to consult a physician for an examination.

Reply Date: 2017/04/13

More Info

When it comes to the effectiveness of condoms and birth control pills in preventing pregnancy, it's important to understand how each method works and their reliability when used correctly.
Condoms, when used properly, are about 85% effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that while they significantly reduce the risk, there is still a chance of failure, often due to improper use or breakage. Birth control pills, on the other hand, are about 99% effective when taken consistently and correctly. This means that if you take your pills at the same time every day without missing any doses, the chances of becoming pregnant are very low.

In your situation, you mentioned that your girlfriend had her period on March 13 and then you had intercourse on March 24 while using a condom and she was also taking birth control pills. Given that she had her period shortly after intercourse, it is highly unlikely that she is pregnant. The menstrual cycle can sometimes be irregular, and factors such as stress, hormonal changes, or even the introduction of hormonal birth control can lead to unexpected bleeding or changes in the cycle.

The fact that she experienced bleeding just four days after intercourse could be attributed to several factors. It might be a breakthrough bleeding, which can occur in women taking hormonal contraceptives, especially if they are new to the method or if there has been a missed dose. It could also be a sign of her menstrual cycle returning, as the hormonal fluctuations can sometimes cause irregularities.

If there are concerns about pregnancy or if her menstrual cycle continues to be irregular, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test for peace of mind. These tests are quite accurate when taken after a missed period. Additionally, if she continues to experience unusual bleeding or other symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider would be beneficial to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, based on the information provided, the likelihood of pregnancy in this scenario is very low due to the combined use of condoms and birth control pills. However, if there are any doubts or concerns, a pregnancy test or a visit to a healthcare professional can provide clarity and reassurance. Always remember that while contraceptives are effective, no method is 100% foolproof, and understanding how to use them correctly is key to maximizing their effectiveness.

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