Can You Get Pregnant with PCOS After Safe Period Intercourse?

Could you please tell me the likelihood of getting pregnant in this way, doctor?

Hello doctor, my girlfriend has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
We had sexual intercourse on the second day after her period ended, during what is considered a safe period.
I only penetrated for about 7-10 thrusts before withdrawing and finishing manually, without ejaculation inside.
However, there were some secretions.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy in this situation?

Da Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/18

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My girlfriend has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Our sexual activity occurred on the second day after her period ended, during the safe period.
I only penetrated for about 7-10 thrusts before withdrawing to finish manually, and there was no ejaculation inside, but there were secretions.
Doctor, is there a possibility of pregnancy in this situation? Answer: The likelihood of pregnancy is low after 7-10 thrusts followed by withdrawal.

Reply Date: 2019/08/18

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy with a partner who has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), especially after engaging in sexual intercourse during what is believed to be a "safe period," it is essential to understand several factors that can influence fertility and the likelihood of conception.

Firstly, PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can affect ovulation. Women with PCOS may experience irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it challenging to predict ovulation accurately. Even if your partner's menstrual cycle appears regular, the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can lead to unexpected ovulation. This unpredictability means that even during what is considered a "safe period," there is still a chance of ovulation occurring, which could lead to pregnancy.

In your case, you mentioned that the sexual intercourse occurred two days after the end of menstruation, and you did not ejaculate inside the vagina. However, it is important to note that pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and even a small amount of this fluid can lead to pregnancy. While the risk is lower without internal ejaculation, it is not zero, especially if there was any pre-ejaculatory fluid present.

Moreover, the timing of ovulation can vary significantly among women, particularly those with PCOS. Some women may ovulate shortly after their period, while others may have a delayed ovulation. If your partner happened to ovulate earlier than expected, there is a possibility of pregnancy occurring from the intercourse you described.

To further assess the risk of pregnancy, it would be advisable for your partner to monitor her menstrual cycle closely and consider using ovulation prediction kits, which can help identify the fertile window more accurately. If there is any concern about potential pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test after a missed period can provide clarity.

In terms of future sexual encounters, if you and your partner are not planning to conceive, it is crucial to use reliable contraception consistently. While withdrawal (pulling out) can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not a foolproof method. Other contraceptive options, such as hormonal birth control, condoms, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can provide more effective protection against unintended pregnancy.

Lastly, if your partner is actively trying to conceive, it may be beneficial for her to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in reproductive health. They can provide personalized advice and treatment options tailored to her specific situation, especially considering her PCOS diagnosis.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy from the described scenario may be lower due to the timing and lack of internal ejaculation, it is still possible. Understanding the complexities of PCOS and the nature of ovulation can help you and your partner make informed decisions regarding sexual health and family planning.

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