Delayed Menstruation: Common Concerns and FAQs

Delayed menstruation?

Hello, doctor.
I previously asked you a question.
The last time, I mentioned that I felt like my period was about to come due to taking Chinese medicine, and when I stopped taking it, that feeling also stopped.
I had intimate relations with my boyfriend on May 21 and May 24.
On May 21, I was wearing pants and safety shorts, and there was no genital friction.
On May 24, my boyfriend's hand entered my vagina, but before that, he had washed his hands to remove any semen.
My last period was on March 23, and it lasted for 7 days, with the next one starting on April 30.
However, I haven't gotten my period this month (my menstrual cycle is usually irregular, about 32 to 40 days), and there have been times when it was even longer.
Previously, when I consulted you, you mentioned that the Chinese medicine might have delayed my period.
I would like to ask some questions again:
1.
Regarding May 21, if semen got on my pants, would it still be possible to get pregnant even with two layers of clothing?
2.
On May 24, my boyfriend did not wash his hands thoroughly; he just rinsed them like normal after removing the semen, and after rinsing, there was no visible semen.
Would this pose a risk of pregnancy?
3.
Is a certain quantity of semen necessary for pregnancy to occur?
4.
Have you encountered cases where taking Chinese herbal supplements or medications affected menstrual cycles?
5.
What methods would you recommend to help regulate my menstrual cycle?
6.
How do you view my situation?
7.
If the feeling of my period coming was experienced before the intimate relations, does that mean it is unrelated to the intimate activity?

Jessica, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/09

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
If semen comes into contact with pants like on 5/21, and there are two layers, it shouldn't lead to pregnancy, right? Ans: Correct.

2.
On 5/24, my boyfriend didn't wash thoroughly; he just rinsed off the semen like washing his hands, and after rinsing, there was no visible semen.
Will this lead to pregnancy? Ans: No, this will not lead to pregnancy.

3.
Does pregnancy require a certain amount of semen? Ans: Yes.

4.
Doctor, have you encountered cases where traditional Chinese medicine or supplements affect menstrual cycles? Ans: Rarely.

5.
What methods would you recommend to regulate menstrual cycles? Ans: A thorough examination is needed first.

6.
How do you assess my situation, Doctor? Ans: Same as above.

7.
If the feeling of an impending menstrual period occurs before intimate activities due to medication, does that mean it is unrelated to the intimate activities? Ans: They are two separate matters.

Reply Date: 2019/06/09

More Info

Understanding delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when there are various factors at play, such as recent intimate encounters, medication use, and pre-existing irregularities in menstrual cycles. Based on your situation, let's address your concerns systematically.

1. Pregnancy Risk from Indirect Contact: Regarding your question about the encounter on May 21, if there was no direct genital contact and only clothing was involved, the likelihood of pregnancy is extremely low. Sperm needs a direct pathway to the vagina to potentially lead to fertilization, and clothing, especially if there are multiple layers, acts as a barrier.

2. Hand Contact and Pregnancy: On May 24, if your boyfriend's hand had been rinsed and there was no visible semen left, the risk of pregnancy remains very low. Sperm viability decreases significantly once exposed to air and water, and the act of washing hands would further reduce any potential risk.
3. Sperm Quantity for Pregnancy: For pregnancy to occur, a certain quantity of viable sperm must enter the vagina. Even a small amount of sperm can lead to pregnancy, but the conditions must be right. In your case, given the circumstances described, the risk is minimal.

4. Impact of Traditional Medicine on Menstrual Cycle: It is not uncommon for herbal supplements or traditional medicines to affect menstrual cycles. Many herbs can influence hormonal balance, which may lead to delayed menstruation. If you have experienced changes in your cycle after starting or stopping such treatments, it is plausible that they are contributing factors.

5. Regulating Menstrual Cycles: To promote regular menstruation, consider maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Stress management is also crucial, as stress can significantly impact hormonal balance. If irregularities persist, consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and potential treatment options, such as hormonal therapy, may be beneficial.

6. Assessment of Your Situation: Based on your description, it appears that your menstrual irregularity may be influenced by multiple factors, including your previous use of traditional medicine and the natural variability of your cycle. Since you mentioned that your cycles can range from 32 to 40 days, it is possible that you are still within a normal range for your body. However, if you miss your period for an extended time or experience other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

7. Connection Between Medication and Intimate Behavior: The sensation of an impending menstrual cycle after taking medication does not necessarily correlate with intimate behavior. It is possible for the body to react to hormonal changes induced by medication independently of any sexual activity.
In conclusion, while your concerns about potential pregnancy are understandable, the circumstances you've described suggest a very low risk. However, if your period does not arrive soon, or if you have further concerns about your menstrual health, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for peace of mind and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and management. Regular check-ups can help monitor your reproductive health and address any underlying issues that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.

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