Pregnancy Chances After Unprotected Intercourse: Key Insights

What is the likelihood of getting pregnant?

The first day of my last menstrual period was on April 10.
My menstrual cycle typically lasts 6 days with a cycle length of about 29 days.
I had unprotected intercourse on July 13, and I took emergency contraception on July 14.
On July 17, I felt some abdominal discomfort and noticed some white discharge.
Is this normal, and when should I take a pregnancy test?

Bo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/19

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If the sexual activity occurred on July 13, pregnancy can typically be detected at least by the end of July.
If you took the emergency contraceptive pill on July 14 and continued to take it as directed, it is generally unlikely that you would become pregnant.

Reply Date: 2021/07/19

More Info

Understanding the chances of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse is crucial for anyone who is sexually active, especially when considering the use of emergency contraception. In your case, you had unprotected intercourse on July 13 and took an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) the following day. This is a responsible step to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. They can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% if taken within 72 hours. Since you took the ECP within 24 hours, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy. However, it is important to note that ECPs are not 100% effective, and there is still a possibility of pregnancy.

Regarding your symptoms, feeling a sensation of fullness or discomfort in your abdomen and noticing some white discharge can be normal and may not necessarily indicate pregnancy. These symptoms can be attributed to hormonal changes, especially after taking ECPs, which can cause side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding patterns.

As for when to take a pregnancy test, it is generally recommended to wait at least one week after the expected date of your next period for the most accurate results. Since your menstrual cycle is typically around 29 days, if your period does not arrive by the end of July, you should consider taking a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. Testing too early may result in a false negative, so waiting until after your missed period is advisable.

If your test is positive, it is important to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your options and next steps. If the test is negative but you still have concerns or if your period does not arrive, you should also consult a healthcare professional to rule out any other issues.

In summary, while the use of emergency contraception significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Monitoring your body for any changes and waiting until the appropriate time to take a pregnancy test will provide you with the best information regarding your situation. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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