Can You Get Pregnant? Risks and Menstrual Cycles

Can I get pregnant?

Hello Doctor, my girlfriend's menstrual cycle usually lasts 32 to 35 days, with a period of about 7 days.
Her last period started on September 8, and on September 13, which was the sixth day of her period, we had unprotected intercourse, but I did not ejaculate and did not feel the urge to.
I pulled out.
On the morning of September 14, I still saw menstrual blood from the early hours of the 13th.
After that, her period ended.
However, last month, before her period on September 7, her cycle was 40 days.
She is worried about the possibility of pregnancy due to pre-ejaculate fluid during arousal, so she came to consult with the doctor.
Q1: I would like to ask the doctor if there is a possibility of pregnancy from what we did, and what is the likelihood?
Q2: Could you please advise how to calculate her ovulation day and when her period is expected to come this month, considering she had a late period last month due to adenomyosis?

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/22

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My girlfriend's menstrual cycle usually ranges from 32 to 35 days, with a duration of about 7 days.
Her period started on September 8, and on September 13, which was the sixth day of her period, we had unprotected intercourse, but I did not ejaculate and did not feel the urge to do so, so I withdrew.
On the morning of September 14, I still noticed menstrual blood from the early hours of the 13th.
After that, her period ended.
However, last month, her cycle was 40 days long before her period started on September 7.
She is worried that pre-ejaculate fluid during arousal could lead to pregnancy, so she is consulting a doctor.
Q1: Doctor, is there a possibility of pregnancy from what we did? What is the likelihood?
A: Since you had unprotected intercourse on the sixth day of her period without ejaculation, the likelihood of pregnancy is very low, less than 5%.
Q2: Doctor, my girlfriend's period was late last month due to adenomyosis.
How should we calculate her ovulation day and when her period is expected to come this month?
A: It is difficult to accurately calculate the ovulation day and expected period for someone with adenomyosis.

Reply Date: 2017/09/22

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy and menstrual cycles, there are several important factors to consider. Let's break down your questions and provide a comprehensive overview.

Q1: Is there a possibility of pregnancy from the described scenario?
In your situation, the chances of pregnancy are relatively low, but not zero. The key points to consider are:
1. Timing of Intercourse: You mentioned that intercourse occurred on the sixth day of your girlfriend's menstrual cycle. Generally, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the next expected period. For a typical cycle of 32-35 days, ovulation would likely occur around days 18-21. Since you had intercourse on day 6, it is quite early in the cycle, which typically means that the chances of sperm meeting an egg are low.

2. Withdrawal Method: You indicated that you used the withdrawal method (pulling out before ejaculation). While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if any sperm were present, there is a small chance of pregnancy.

3. Cycle Irregularities: You mentioned that your girlfriend's previous cycle was 40 days long. Irregular cycles can make it more challenging to predict ovulation accurately. If her cycles are inconsistent, it may be harder to determine when she is fertile.

Overall, while the risk of pregnancy in this scenario is low, it is not entirely absent. If your girlfriend is concerned about a potential pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test after a missed period is advisable.

Q2: How to calculate ovulation and the expected menstrual cycle considering adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis can affect menstrual cycles and ovulation patterns. Here are some steps to help estimate ovulation and the next expected period:
1. Track Cycle Length: Since your girlfriend's cycles vary, it’s essential to track her cycles over a few months to identify any patterns. This can help in predicting ovulation.

2. Calculate Ovulation: For a typical cycle, ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the next period. If her cycle is 32 days, ovulation might occur around day 18. If her cycle is 35 days, ovulation might occur around day 21. However, with irregular cycles, this can vary.

3. Signs of Ovulation: Look for physical signs of ovulation, such as changes in cervical mucus (which becomes clearer and more slippery) and possible mild cramping or breast tenderness.

4. Use Ovulation Kits: Ovulation predictor kits can help determine the most fertile days by detecting the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs before ovulation.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given the presence of adenomyosis, it may be beneficial for your girlfriend to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest monitoring techniques or treatments to help manage symptoms and improve cycle regularity.

Conclusion
Understanding menstrual cycles and the risks of pregnancy involves considering various factors, including cycle length, timing of intercourse, and individual health conditions. While the risk of pregnancy in your described scenario is low, it is essential to remain informed and cautious. If there are ongoing concerns about fertility or menstrual irregularities, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can provide clarity and support.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant During Menstruation? Understanding Safe Periods

During a woman's menstrual cycle, there is a phase often referred to as the "fertility window" or "safe period," although the terminology may vary. During this time, the likelihood of conception is lower, but it is important to note that it is not entirel...

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. It is indeed not possible to become pregnant during menstruation. 2. Engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation can easily lead to vaginal or uterine infections, which can harm health and, in severe cases, affect fertility. Please think carefully before engaging in suc...

Understanding Menstrual Cycles: Risks of Pregnancy During Periods

If your menstrual cycle is longer than 28 days, having intercourse with your boyfriend during your period may still pose a risk of pregnancy, although the likelihood is generally lower. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and if you have a shorter...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the menstrual period is also considered a safe period, so the chances of pregnancy are low. However, engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation can be less healthy due to the presence of blood. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? Understanding Risks and Myths

If you have sexual intercourse with your boyfriend on the second day of your menstrual period without using protection, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is generally low, but it is not impossible. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and if you ...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Only the correct and consistent use of condoms can prevent sexually transmitted infections and provide effective contraception; the rhythm method is unreliable. Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Can You Get Pregnant If You Have Your Period?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if having a menstrual period means that one cannot become pregnant?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low if you have your period. Wishing you good health.