Irregular Periods and Pregnancy Chances: What You Need to Know

Irregular menstrual cycles can affect the likelihood of pregnancy. When menstrual cycles are irregular, it can be challenging to predict ovulation, which is the time when a woman is most fertile. This unpredictability may reduce

Hello, doctor.
My schedule is irregular, and I often stay up late.
My menstrual cycle is also very irregular; sometimes I get my period every month, and other times it doesn't come for one or two months.
The last time I had my period was around April 20 of this year.
I haven't had it in May or June, and it still hasn't come.
However, in mid-May, I had some brown discharge that resembled a mixture of cervical mucus and light brown menstrual blood.
The amount was very small, the color was light, and there was no odor.
It lasted for about 3 to 5 days.
Does this count as having my period?
From early June to the end of June, I had intimate relations with my boyfriend, but it was only external rubbing, and neither of us was wearing underwear, and there were no protective measures.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? Recently, I've been experiencing slight discomfort and bloating in my lower abdomen, and my breasts are tender when pressed.
Are these signs of an impending menstrual period?

Fufu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/16

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse.
2.
Abnormal bleeding and irregular menstrual cycles can have many underlying causes; it is recommended to consult a gynecologist for assessment.

Reply Date: 2020/07/16

More Info

Irregular periods can significantly affect your chances of becoming pregnant, and understanding the nuances of your menstrual cycle is crucial for reproductive health. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, which can be influenced by various factors, including stress, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions.

Firstly, the brown discharge you experienced in mid-May could be a sign of several things. It might be old blood that is taking longer to exit the body, or it could be an early sign of menstruation. However, since you mentioned that you have not had a full menstrual period since April 20, this discharge alone does not constitute a regular menstrual cycle. In women with irregular periods, it is not uncommon to experience spotting or light bleeding that does not follow the typical pattern of menstruation.

Regarding your intimate relationship in June, while the method you described (outercourse) generally has a lower risk of pregnancy compared to penetrative intercourse, it is not entirely without risk. Sperm can potentially be present in pre-ejaculatory fluid, and if there was any direct contact with the vaginal area, there is a possibility of pregnancy, albeit lower than with unprotected intercourse. Given your irregular cycles, predicting ovulation can be challenging, which adds to the uncertainty of your pregnancy chances.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as slight abdominal discomfort and breast tenderness, can indeed be indicative of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early signs of pregnancy. However, these symptoms are not definitive indicators of either condition. Many women experience similar symptoms before their period due to hormonal fluctuations, especially in cases of irregular cycles.

If you suspect you might be pregnant, the most reliable way to confirm this is through a home pregnancy test or a visit to a healthcare provider for a blood test. Home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, so if your period does not arrive soon, consider testing again.

In the context of your irregular periods, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the underlying causes of your irregular cycles, which could include hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues, or other health concerns. Addressing these issues can improve your menstrual regularity and overall reproductive health.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given your recent intimate contact, the irregularity of your menstrual cycle complicates the situation. Monitoring your symptoms, taking a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive, and seeking medical advice for your irregular cycles will provide you with clearer answers and guidance moving forward.

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