Pregnancy Risk After Unprotected Sex on Day Six of Birth Control - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Having unprotected intercourse within the first six days of taking birth control pills?


I am taking birth control pills for the first time.
My last menstrual period started on November 17, and I began taking the pills on November 22, which was the sixth day of my period.
I had unprotected intercourse on the sixth day of taking the pills, and I am concerned about the likelihood of pregnancy.
My menstrual cycle typically ranges from 32 to 39 days.

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/28

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it should be safe.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/11/28

More Info


When it comes to understanding the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex while on birth control pills, several factors need to be considered. In your case, you started taking the birth control pill on November 22, which was the sixth day of your menstrual cycle, as your last period began on November 17.
Generally, birth control pills are designed to prevent ovulation, and they are most effective when taken consistently and correctly. When you start taking the pill, it usually takes about seven days for the contraceptive effects to become fully effective if you start taking it at a time other than the first day of your period. Since you began taking the pill on day six of your cycle, it is likely that you were not fully protected against pregnancy during the first week of taking the pill, especially if you had unprotected sex on the sixth day of taking the pill.

Given that you had unprotected sex and there was ejaculation inside, there is a risk of pregnancy. However, since you have a longer menstrual cycle (32-39 days), it is important to note that ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of your cycle. If you started the pill correctly and have been taking it consistently since then, the chances of ovulation occurring while on the pill are significantly reduced.
Here are some additional points to consider:
1. Timing of Ovulation: If your cycle is longer, ovulation may not occur until later in your cycle. Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, so if you were still in the early days of the pill, the risk of ovulation and subsequent pregnancy is lower, but not eliminated.

2. Effectiveness of Birth Control Pills: When taken correctly, birth control pills are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, if you miss a pill or take it inconsistently, the effectiveness decreases.
3. Emergency Contraception: If you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, you may consider taking emergency contraception (Plan B) within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. This can help prevent pregnancy if taken in a timely manner.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: After starting birth control pills, some women may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including lighter periods or spotting. If your period is late or you experience unusual symptoms, it may be worthwhile to take a pregnancy test.

5. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you have further concerns about your risk of pregnancy or the effectiveness of your birth control method, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

In summary, while there is a risk of pregnancy due to unprotected sex on the sixth day of taking the pill, the overall risk is lower if you have been taking the pill consistently. If you are worried about the possibility of pregnancy, consider taking a pregnancy test after a missed period or consult with a healthcare professional for further guidance.

Similar Q&A

Pregnancy Risk After 6 Days of Birth Control Pill Use: What to Know

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation. Since this is my first time taking pre-exposure contraceptive pills, I had intercourse 8 hours after taking the sixth pill. What is the likelihood of pregnancy if I have not taken the pills for a full 7 days? Additionally, wou...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the first time you take birth control pills, it is recommended to start on the first day of your menstrual cycle. If you start taking the pills after the second day of your period, it is advised to use additional contraceptive measures, such as emergency contraception, for...

[Read More] Pregnancy Risk After 6 Days of Birth Control Pill Use: What to Know


Concerns About Conception After Unprotected Sex on Birth Control

Hello doctor, I have a habit of taking birth control pills regularly. Yesterday, on April 9th, I had unprotected intercourse on the last day of my period. I took the birth control pill on the second day after that. My concern is that I can't remember how many days it has bee...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should not be pregnant. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Concerns About Conception After Unprotected Sex on Birth Control


Understanding Pregnancy Risks with Birth Control Pills: Your Questions Answered

Hello, doctor. I am taking a 28-day pack of birth control pills. I took the first pill on the second day of my menstrual period at 11 PM. However, I had unprotected intercourse on the sixth and seventh mornings after taking the pill, but there was no ejaculation inside. What is t...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. It is recommended to start taking birth control pills on the first day of the menstrual cycle. If you begin taking the p...

[Read More] Understanding Pregnancy Risks with Birth Control Pills: Your Questions Answered


Can You Get Pregnant After Unprotected Sex on Birth Control?

Hello! Your girlfriend started her period on the fifth day (March 11) and has taken 7 pills (including today at noon) by March 17. If you had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation on the night of March 17, there is a possibility of pregnancy. It is important to consider that t...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you take the contraceptive pill on time, it should be effective in preventing pregnancy. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant After Unprotected Sex on Birth Control?


Related FAQ

Emergency Contraceptive Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Abortion Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

High-Risk Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Condom

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Sexually Transmitted Disease

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Date

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Safe Period

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pain During Intercourse

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Post-Coital Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Vaccination

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)