Could I Be Pregnant? Your Menstrual Cycle and Contraception

Could I be pregnant?

Hello, I have been regularly taking the emergency contraceptive pill (Ella) and during my last sexual encounter on May 6, I used a condom throughout.
My period started the next day, and I began taking the pill again on the fourth day of my period.
Since I had no contraceptive needs, I took four pills in the new cycle and then stopped.
After 3-4 days, I experienced light bleeding.
Three weeks later, I had a negative pregnancy test after sexual intercourse.
My second period came 27 days later (with normal menstrual flow), but now I am 45 days late for my period and I am very worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
I would appreciate your advice, doctor.

cc, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/28

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you delay taking the birth control pill by two days, its effectiveness may be compromised.
Your situation is possible, so it is advisable to take a urine test to confirm.

Reply Date: 2021/07/28

More Info

It sounds like you have several concerns regarding the possibility of pregnancy, especially considering your recent experiences with contraception and your menstrual cycle. Let's break down your situation and address your questions.

First, it's important to understand how the menstrual cycle works and how contraception can affect it. The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. Ovulation usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, and this is when a woman is most fertile. If you had unprotected sex during your fertile window, there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you mentioned that you were consistently taking birth control pills and using condoms, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

In your case, you mentioned that you were taking the birth control pill (悦己) regularly and that you also used a condom during intercourse on May 6. After this encounter, you had your period, which is a good sign that you are not pregnant. You started taking the pill again on the fourth day of your period, but then you stopped after taking four pills. Stopping the pill can lead to irregular bleeding or spotting, which might explain the light bleeding you experienced after discontinuing the medication.

You also mentioned that you had a negative pregnancy test three weeks after the sexual encounter and that you experienced a normal menstrual cycle 27 days later. This further supports the likelihood that you are not pregnant. However, the fact that you have not had your period for 45 days now is understandably concerning. There are several reasons why your period might be delayed, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or even the effects of stopping the birth control pill.

If you are still worried about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take another pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are quite accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant and help investigate other potential causes for your missed period.

In summary, based on the information you provided, it seems unlikely that you are pregnant, especially since you had a normal menstrual period after the sexual encounter and a negative pregnancy test. However, if your period continues to be absent, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you understand your menstrual cycle and contraceptive options better. Remember, it's always better to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your reproductive health.

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