Pregnancy Chances During Menstruation: Factors to Consider

The probability of pregnancy from unprotected intercourse during menstruation (considering other variables)?

Hello, doctor.
I have a question regarding my girlfriend's menstrual cycle.
She started experiencing menstrual symptoms on May 31 (brownish discharge), and on June 1, early in the morning, we confirmed that it was indeed her period (the flow increased and turned red).
After intercourse, there was ejaculation inside.
During the day on June 1, her menstrual flow appeared normal and bright red, and it continued normally throughout the entire cycle, although it lasted a few extra days (the later days were light brown).
I have heard that if pregnancy occurs during an unexpected ovulation, it could interrupt the current menstrual cycle.
Is this correct? As of now, on July 5, my girlfriend has not yet gotten her period.

Considering the following variables:
1.
My girlfriend has symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and her menstrual blood sometimes arrives as expected, but other times it can be one to two weeks early or late.
2.
She has been preparing for a major exam recently, which has caused her to stay up late and experience significant stress and emotional instability.
Given the above description and variables, what do you think the likelihood of pregnancy is? Thank you for your help, doctor.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/05

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse.
2.
There is no formula to calculate the probability.

Reply Date: 2020/07/05

More Info

When considering the chances of pregnancy during menstruation, several factors come into play, especially in the context of your girlfriend's situation. Let's break down the key points to understand the likelihood of conception during this time, particularly given her history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the stress factors you mentioned.

1. Understanding Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation: Typically, a woman's menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary significantly. Ovulation usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the next period begins. However, in women with irregular cycles, such as those with PCOS, ovulation can be unpredictable. This unpredictability can lead to situations where ovulation occurs shortly after menstruation, potentially allowing for conception if intercourse occurs during or just after the menstrual period.

2. Sperm Viability: Sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive tract for up to five days. If intercourse occurs during menstruation, and ovulation happens shortly after, there is a possibility that the sperm could still be viable when the egg is released. This means that even if intercourse occurs during menstruation, there is still a chance of pregnancy if ovulation occurs soon after.

3. Impact of PCOS: PCOS can complicate the situation further. Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, which can make it difficult to predict ovulation. This irregularity can lead to unexpected ovulation, increasing the chances of conception even during what is perceived as menstruation. If your girlfriend has a history of irregular cycles, it is essential to consider that she may not be ovulating on a typical schedule.

4. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Stress can significantly impact hormonal balance and menstrual cycles. The stress from preparing for a significant exam, along with potential changes in sleep patterns due to late-night studying, can lead to further irregularities in her cycle. Stress can delay ovulation or even cause missed periods, which may explain why her period has not arrived by July 5th.

5. Pregnancy Testing: Given that your girlfriend's period is late, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is negative and her period does not arrive, she may want to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. This could include checking for hormonal imbalances or other underlying issues related to her PCOS.

6. Conclusion: Based on the information provided, while the chances of pregnancy during menstruation are generally low, they are not nonexistent, especially in the context of irregular cycles and the viability of sperm. Given your girlfriend's symptoms and the stress factors, it is essential to monitor her menstrual cycle closely and consider taking a pregnancy test if her period does not arrive soon. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also provide clarity and guidance on managing her PCOS and any potential pregnancy.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy during menstruation is generally low, factors such as irregular cycles due to PCOS and the viability of sperm can increase the chances. It's crucial to stay informed and proactive about reproductive health, especially in the context of irregular cycles and stress.

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