Safe Days and Ovulation in Your Partner's Cycle

Danger period issues

Hello, doctor.
My girlfriend's menstrual periods have been as follows over the past four months: 2/9 to 2/15, 3/10 to 3/16, 4/11 to 4/17, and 5/5 to 5/11.
Her cycle is typically 28 days, with a bleeding duration of 7 days.
Since last year, we have been having unprotected intercourse during her menstrual period, and I also ejaculate within 1 to 2 days after her bleeding ends.
She has a strong sex drive and often desires intimacy, frequently requesting that I do not use a condom or that I ejaculate inside her.

According to an app, her ovulation period is indicated as 5/20.
I have observed that around this date, her cervical mucus significantly increased, and her libido heightened.
However, by today, 5/26, the mucus has decreased (I asked her, and she mentioned that her ovulation-related discharge usually increases a lot).
The app also shows that her next period is expected on 6/3.

I would like to ask if the dates 5/29, 5/30, and 5/31 are safe for intercourse.
Additionally, she has mentioned that her breasts feel firm before and after her period, but this firmness disappears a few days after her menstruation ends.
Is this normal?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, there is no absolute safety; it is best to take contraceptive measures.
Before menstruation, the breasts may feel swollen.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/05/26

More Info

Understanding the nuances of a woman's menstrual cycle, including safe days and ovulation, is crucial for both partners, especially when considering sexual activity and the potential for pregnancy. Based on the information provided, let's break down the key components of the menstrual cycle and address your concerns regarding safety during sexual activity.

Menstrual Cycle Overview
A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days in different women. The cycle is divided into several phases:
1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-7): This is when menstruation occurs. The uterine lining sheds if there is no pregnancy.

2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-13): After menstruation, the body prepares for ovulation. Hormones stimulate the growth of follicles in the ovaries.

3. Ovulation (Day 14): This is when an egg is released from the ovary. Ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. The egg is viable for about 12-24 hours.

4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): After ovulation, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, leading to menstruation.

Safe Days and Ovulation
The concept of "safe days" refers to the days in the menstrual cycle when the likelihood of conception is low. Generally, the days leading up to and including ovulation are considered the "danger zone" for potential pregnancy. For a woman with a 28-day cycle, the ovulation typically occurs around day 14, making days 11-16 the most fertile days.

In your case, if your girlfriend's next period is expected on June 3, and her ovulation is predicted around May 20, then the days immediately following ovulation (May 21-24) would be considered relatively safe for unprotected intercourse, as the egg would no longer be viable. However, sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so any unprotected intercourse leading up to ovulation can still result in pregnancy.

Concerns About Unprotected Intercourse
Engaging in unprotected intercourse during the fertile window significantly increases the risk of pregnancy. If you and your girlfriend have been having unprotected sex during her menstrual cycle, particularly around her ovulation, it is essential to consider the implications of this choice. If pregnancy is not desired, it is advisable to use reliable contraception methods consistently.

Breast Changes and Menstrual Cycle
Regarding your girlfriend's breast changes, it is common for women to experience breast tenderness or changes in texture due to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle. These changes often occur in the days leading up to menstruation and can subside shortly after the period begins. If the changes are significant or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be worth consulting a healthcare professional.

Conclusion
To summarize, understanding your girlfriend's menstrual cycle can help you navigate the complexities of sexual activity and pregnancy risk. While the days following ovulation may be considered safer, relying solely on this method for contraception can be risky. If you are concerned about pregnancy or wish to avoid it, consider discussing more reliable contraceptive options with your partner. Additionally, if there are any unusual symptoms or concerns regarding her menstrual cycle, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, theoretically it is the safe period, but if you are not sure, you can take emergency contraception just in case. It's important to use contraceptive measures at all times and not to rely solely on the safe period. Wishing you good health.

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