Ovulation: Pregnancy Risks and Contraceptive Measures

Intercourse during ovulation period?

Hello Doctor, I am the person who asked question #147268.
I would like to add that on July 1st, it was the day of ovulation, which is when the chance of pregnancy is highest.
My boyfriend and I had intercourse a few times, approximately 3 to 4 thrusts, and then we used a condom and did not ejaculate around 10 or 11 PM.
The next day, around 11 AM, I took an emergency contraceptive pill (Levonorgestrel).
After taking it, I felt a bit nauseous the next day, and in the morning, I had some mild abdominal discomfort, but it improved by the afternoon.
Before we had intercourse, I already felt breast tenderness similar to when my period is about to come.
My period is expected in about two weeks.
Since it was during ovulation, I am a bit worried.
Should I be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy? Is the risk high, or should I just wait for my period? Thank you, Doctor.

Xiao Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On July 1st, it was the day of ovulation, which is when the chances of getting pregnant are highest.
I had intercourse with my boyfriend, and there were a few thrusts, about 3 to 4 times, before we used a condom, and he did not ejaculate around 10 or 11 PM.
The next day, around 11 AM, I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Levonorgestrel).
After taking it, I felt a little nauseous the next day, and in the morning, I had some mild abdominal discomfort, but it improved by the afternoon.
Before we had intercourse, I already felt breast tenderness similar to when my period is about to come.
My period is expected in about two weeks.
Since it was during ovulation, I am a bit worried.
Should I be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy? Is the risk high, or should I just wait for my period to come? Answer: Just wait for your period to come.

Reply Date: 2019/07/03

More Info

Understanding ovulation and the associated risks of pregnancy is crucial for anyone trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy. In your case, you mentioned that you had intercourse during your ovulation period, which is indeed the time when the chances of conception are highest. However, you also took precautions by using a condom and subsequently taking emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) within a day after intercourse.

Ovulation and Conception
Ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of your menstrual cycle, which is when an egg is released from the ovary and is available for fertilization. If sperm is present in the reproductive tract during this time, there is a significant chance of conception. The sperm can survive in the female reproductive system for up to five days, so even if you had intercourse a few days before ovulation, there is still a risk of pregnancy.

Emergency Contraception
You mentioned taking a morning-after pill (妊止膜衣錠) the day after intercourse. This type of emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to five days later. The side effects you experienced, such as nausea and abdominal discomfort, are common reactions to hormonal contraceptives and are not unusual after taking emergency contraception.

Assessing Pregnancy Risk
Given that you used a condom during intercourse and took emergency contraception, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. The symptoms you described, such as breast tenderness and abdominal discomfort, could be related to hormonal changes from the emergency contraception or could be premenstrual symptoms.

Waiting for Your Period
Since your menstrual cycle is expected to resume in about two weeks, it would be prudent to wait for your period to arrive. If your period is late by more than a week, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation. These tests are quite sensitive and can provide accurate results if taken after a missed period.

Conclusion
In summary, while the risk of pregnancy exists due to the timing of intercourse, the precautions you took—using a condom and taking emergency contraception—greatly reduce that risk. Monitor your body for any changes, and if you have any concerns or if your period does not arrive as expected, consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. It's always best to discuss any ongoing concerns with a medical professional who can provide personalized advice based on your health history and circumstances.

Similar Q&A

Impact of Ovulation Pills on Pregnancy Risk After Unprotected Intercourse

Hello, Dr. Chang. I would like to ask you a question. My girlfriend experienced irregular menstruation and uterine bleeding last month, so she visited a gynecologist. The doctor initially prescribed her hemostatic medication. After finishing that, during her follow-up visit, the ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description of symptoms, it does not increase the chances of conception, as you have not yet entered the ovulation period. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr. Chang.

Understanding Menstrual Cycles: Pregnancy Risks and Irregularities Explained

Doctor: I have two questions for you: 1. After menstruation, if there is unprotected sexual intercourse a few days later, is there still a possibility of pregnancy? When is it safe to have unprotected sex without the risk of pregnancy? 2. Having two menstrual periods in one month...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear online user, Regarding your inquiry, "When is it that having sexual intercourse without contraception will not result in pregnancy?" this refers to the so-called "safe period" in family planning. Engaging in sexual activity around the ovulation period wi...

Understanding Ovulation Medications: Effects on Menstruation and Fertility

Hello, will taking ovulation pills prevent ovulation? Will taking ovulation pills delay menstruation? Is a delayed period due to lack of ovulation? Will administering a trigger shot affect pregnancy in the following cycle?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking ovulation medication does not guarantee ovulation, as individual responses to the medication can vary. Normally, if there is a response, menstruation should occur once a month. Administering a trigger shot will not affect the chances of pregnancy in the following cy...

Understanding Ovulation and Pregnancy Risks After Unprotected Sex

Hello Doctor, my last menstrual period ended on December 22. Four days later, on December 26, I had sexual intercourse while using a condom and there was no ejaculation inside. However, I have been experiencing pain in my right lower abdomen, near the ovarian area. In previous me...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Since your menstrual cycle has been irregular recently, it is difficult to predict the timing of ovulation and menstruation this time. I recommend that if you are unable to confirm whether the bleeding on the ...