Missed Period: Am I Pregnant? Risks and Factors

Could a delayed period indicate pregnancy?

Hello, Dr.
Huang.
My app indicated that my menstrual period was supposed to start on Saturday, but it hasn't arrived yet.
During my ovulation period, my boyfriend used his fingers to help me with masturbation, and I'm really scared that I might be pregnant.
Last week, a few days before my expected period, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend, but he only penetrated briefly before pulling out, and then I helped him with manual stimulation.
I would like to ask the doctor, given that my period hasn't come yet, what are the chances of pregnancy? Could it be that the stress from my final exams after ovulation is affecting my cycle? Please let me know the likelihood of pregnancy; I'm very worried.

Xie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/27

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The app on my phone indicates that my period is due on Saturday, but as of today, it hasn't arrived.
During my ovulation period, my boyfriend used his fingers to help me with masturbation, and I'm really scared that I might be pregnant.
Last week, a few days before my expected period, I also had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend, but he only penetrated briefly at the beginning and then pulled out while I helped him with manual stimulation.

1.
Given that my period hasn't arrived yet, is the chance of pregnancy high?
Answer: The chance of pregnancy should be low since it was only during the ovulation period that your boyfriend used his fingers in the vagina.
2.
Could it be that my period is delayed due to the stress of final exams after ovulation?
Answer: That is likely the case.

PS: I recommend referring to the National Health Service's "Sexual Happiness e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation Guide for Adolescents on Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Reply Date: 2017/06/27

More Info

Missed periods can be a source of anxiety, especially when there is a possibility of pregnancy. Based on the information you've provided, it seems you are concerned about the chances of being pregnant due to recent sexual activities, including manual stimulation and unprotected intercourse. Let's break down the factors that could contribute to a missed period and the likelihood of pregnancy.

Firstly, it's important to understand how pregnancy occurs. For conception to happen, sperm must fertilize an egg, which typically occurs during ovulation. If you had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window (which is usually around the time of ovulation), there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you mentioned that your boyfriend only engaged in limited penetration and then withdrew, the risk may be lower, but not entirely absent. Pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if any sperm were present, there is a chance of pregnancy.

Regarding your missed period, several factors could contribute to this situation. Stress is a significant factor that can disrupt your menstrual cycle. You mentioned that you are currently facing exams, which can lead to increased anxiety and changes in your routine, potentially affecting your hormonal balance and delaying your period. Other factors that can cause a missed period include changes in weight, exercise levels, and underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid issues.

If your period is late, the most reliable way to determine if you are pregnant is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to wait until at least one week after your missed period to take the test.

If the test is positive, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and to discuss your options. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional to explore other potential causes for the missed period.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the circumstances, the likelihood may be influenced by various factors, including the timing of intercourse, the method of withdrawal, and your current stress levels. Taking a pregnancy test will provide clarity, and if you have further concerns, seeking medical advice is always a good step. Remember, it’s essential to take care of your mental and physical health during this time.

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