Is the Risk of Pregnancy High After Unprotected Intercourse During Ovulation?

Is the probability of pregnancy high if unprotected intercourse occurs during the suspected ovulation period?

This was my first time, and during the process, the male partner removed the condom, resulting in unprotected intercourse.
Although he withdrew before ejaculation, I am still very worried.
About 12 hours before the encounter, I noticed clear discharge, which makes me suspect that I was in my ovulation period (I had my period around June 23 and had intercourse on July 5, which is about 11 days later, seemingly within the fertile window).
I took emergency contraception one hour after the incident.
What are the chances of pregnancy? When can I use a pregnancy test?

A-Xing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/06

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

This was my first time, and during the process, the male partner accidentally removed the condom, resulting in unprotected intercourse.
Although he withdrew before ejaculation, I am still very concerned.
About 12 hours before the act, I noticed clear discharge, which makes me suspect that I was in my ovulation period (I had my period around June 23 and had intercourse on July 5, which is about 11 days later and seems to be within the fertile window).
I took emergency contraception one hour after the incident.
What are the chances of pregnancy? Answer: The chances of pregnancy are not high.
When can I use a pregnancy test? Answer: July 24.

Reply Date: 2019/07/06

More Info

The concern regarding the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, particularly during the ovulation period, is quite valid. Ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of a woman's menstrual cycle, and during this time, the chances of conception are significantly heightened. In your case, since you mentioned that you had clear cervical mucus, which is a sign of ovulation, it indicates that you were indeed in a fertile window.

When unprotected intercourse occurs during ovulation, the likelihood of sperm meeting an egg is at its peak. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, and if ovulation occurs within that timeframe, there is a substantial chance of fertilization. Given that you had intercourse on July 5th and were already experiencing signs of ovulation, the risk of pregnancy is indeed higher.

Taking emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") within an hour after the intercourse is a proactive step. These pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to five days later. The effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases the longer you wait, but taking it promptly increases your chances of preventing pregnancy.

As for when to take a pregnancy test, it is generally recommended to wait until at least the first day of your missed period for the most accurate results. This is because pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. If you test too early, there may not be enough hCG in your system to detect, leading to a false negative result. If your cycle is regular and you have a 28-day cycle, you could consider testing around July 19th, which would be approximately two weeks after ovulation.

In summary, the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse during ovulation is indeed high, and taking emergency contraception is a wise decision. Monitor your body for any signs of pregnancy and plan to take a pregnancy test after your expected period date for the most reliable results. If you have any further concerns or experience unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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