Can You Still Get Pregnant with PCOS After Safe Sex? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Will this still result in pregnancy?


Using condoms throughout intercourse but worried about a potential break, and since your girlfriend's menstrual cycle hasn't arrived, she visited a doctor.
The doctor performed a urine test which indicated she is not pregnant, and a blood test revealed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Is there still a chance for her to become pregnant?

Xiang Xiang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/21

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Using condoms throughout the entire intercourse but worried about a potential break, and since my girlfriend hasn't gotten her period and hasn't seen a doctor.
The doctor performed a urine test which showed no pregnancy, and the blood test results indicated polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Is there still a chance of getting pregnant? Answer: In this case, there would be no chance of pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2018/07/21

More Info


Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. Women with PCOS often face challenges when it comes to fertility, but it is important to understand the nuances of how this condition interacts with the possibility of pregnancy, especially in the context of safe sex practices.

To address your question, while using condoms during sexual intercourse significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not an absolute guarantee. Condoms can occasionally break or slip off, which can lead to unintended exposure to sperm. However, if you have consistently used condoms and there has been no breakage, the likelihood of pregnancy is quite low.
In your case, you mentioned that your girlfriend has not had her menstrual period and has undergone urine and blood tests that confirmed she is not pregnant. This is a reassuring sign, especially considering that PCOS can cause irregular periods, which may lead to confusion regarding ovulation and the timing of potential conception. Women with PCOS may experience anovulation (lack of ovulation), which further complicates their ability to conceive naturally.

While PCOS can make it more difficult to become pregnant due to irregular ovulation, it does not mean that pregnancy is impossible. Women with PCOS can still ovulate occasionally, and if they engage in unprotected intercourse during their fertile window, there is a chance of conception. The fact that your girlfriend has been diagnosed with PCOS means that her menstrual cycle may not be regular, which can make predicting ovulation challenging.
If your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is irregular, it is advisable for her to monitor her cycle and consider consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. There are various treatment options available for women with PCOS who are trying to conceive, including lifestyle modifications, medications to induce ovulation, and assisted reproductive technologies.

In summary, while the use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Given your girlfriend's PCOS diagnosis and the fact that she has undergone testing that shows she is not currently pregnant, the chances of pregnancy from the recent sexual encounters appear to be low. However, if her menstrual cycle remains irregular or if there are any concerns about her reproductive health, it would be beneficial for her to seek further medical advice. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve her chances of conception in the future if that is her goal.

Similar Q&A

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Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late. Thank you! Wishing you peace and healt...

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Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS While on Birth Control?

Hello, Dr. Huang. I have polycystic ovary syndrome and have been taking oral contraceptives for over two months. Last week, my boyfriend ejaculated during my fertile window. Is there a chance I could be pregnant?


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and have been taking oral contraceptives for over two months, it is unlikely that you will become pregnant, even if your boyfriend ejaculated during your fertile window.

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