Pregnancy Chances: Timing and Safe Practices - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is the probability of getting pregnant high?


Hello Doctor: My menstrual cycle is usually very regular.
Although I experienced a 7-day delay from December to February due to stress, I still had my period.
From March to May, my periods have been consistently on the 9th, with a cycle length of about 30-31 days and a duration of approximately 6-7 days (these data are recorded using a mobile app over the past three years).
My last period started on May 9, and I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on May 13 (with a condom, and he withdrew).
My mobile app indicates that my possible ovulation date is May 25, but I had sexual intercourse again with my boyfriend on May 31 (without a condom, but we switched to oral sex after about 2-3 minutes of penetration).
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? Additionally, is it problematic to have sexual intercourse a few days before the end of my menstrual period?

Mu Mu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/01

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello Miss Mu Mu: If your ovulation date is indeed around May 25th, then the sexual activity on May 31st should fall within a safe period, and the likelihood of pregnancy is low, so you shouldn't worry too much.
If there is still some bleeding in the last few days of your menstrual period, it is best to avoid sexual intercourse to reduce the risk of abdominal pain or inflammation.

Reply Date: 2021/06/01

More Info


When it comes to understanding the chances of pregnancy and safe practices, it's essential to consider several factors, including the timing of ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and the methods of contraception used. Based on the information you've provided, let's break down your situation.

Firstly, your menstrual cycle appears to be relatively regular, with a typical length of 30-31 days and a duration of 6-7 days. This regularity is beneficial for predicting ovulation. Generally, ovulation occurs about 14 days before the start of your next period. Given that your last menstrual period started on May 9, your estimated ovulation date would indeed be around May 25, according to your cycle length.

Now, regarding the sexual encounters you mentioned:
1. May 13: You had intercourse with a condom, and the male partner withdrew before ejaculation. Using a condom significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, and withdrawal (pulling out) adds an additional layer of precaution, although it is not foolproof due to the possibility of pre-ejaculate fluid containing sperm.

2. May 31: You engaged in unprotected intercourse for a short duration before switching to oral sex. Since this encounter occurred after your estimated ovulation date, the likelihood of pregnancy from this specific act is lower, but not impossible. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if ovulation occurred later than expected, there could still be a risk.

Regarding your question about the timing of sexual activity in relation to your menstrual cycle, having intercourse towards the end of your period or just after can be less risky for pregnancy, especially if you have a regular cycle. However, it’s important to note that sperm can survive for several days, and cycles can vary, so there is always a small chance of pregnancy.

To summarize your situation:
- The risk of pregnancy from the May 13 encounter is low due to the use of a condom and withdrawal method.

- The risk from the May 31 encounter is also relatively low, especially since it occurred after your estimated ovulation date.

- Engaging in sexual activity towards the end of your menstrual cycle is generally considered to be a lower-risk time for pregnancy, but it is not without risk.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period is late or if you experience any unusual symptoms. Additionally, if you are looking for more reliable contraception methods, you might want to discuss options with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on various contraceptive methods, including hormonal options, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and more, which can help you manage your reproductive health effectively.

In conclusion, while your chances of pregnancy from the described encounters seem low, it is always wise to be cautious and informed about your reproductive health. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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