Am I at Risk of Pregnancy? Do I Need Emergency Contraception?

Can I get pregnant? Do I need to take emergency contraception?

Hello Doctor: My last menstrual period was from July 21 to 25, and my cycle is usually around 28 to 30 days, very regular.
From July 28 to July 30, the app indicated a low probability of pregnancy, so my boyfriend and I had unprotected intercourse for a short time.
However, he did not feel like he ejaculated, nor did he feel any pre-ejaculate fluid.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy in this situation? Should I take emergency contraception? I heard that the pill needs to be taken within 72 hours to be effective, so I hope to get your answer as soon as possible!

Shu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/30

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Shu,
Due to the backend system passing the questions to me, there is a time delay in my responses.
It is now August 2nd (the backend will process on August 4th).
If you have an urgent issue, I recommend seeking help from an obstetrician-gynecologist or the emergency department, as they may be able to address your concerns more quickly.
Returning to the main topic, even during non-fertile periods, there is still a chance of pregnancy.
To be on the safe side, I recommend taking emergency contraception.
Of course, using regular birth control pills or condoms beforehand would be a better option.
I sincerely hope that your next menstrual period arrives as expected.
If it is delayed by more than a week, please remember to take a pregnancy test.
Dr.
Huang Zifei, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/07/30

More Info

When considering the risk of pregnancy and the need for emergency contraception, it's important to understand the timing of your menstrual cycle, the nature of your sexual activity, and the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive methods.

Based on the information you provided, your last menstrual period was from July 21 to July 25, and you typically have a regular cycle of about 28 to 30 days. This means that your next expected period would be around August 21 to August 25. The days you mentioned (July 28 to July 30) fall within your fertile window, which is typically around the middle of your cycle. However, you noted that you had unprotected intercourse but your boyfriend did not ejaculate, and you did not feel any pre-ejaculatory fluid.

While the risk of pregnancy is lower when there is no ejaculation, it is still possible for pregnancy to occur. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, although typically in much lower quantities than ejaculate. Therefore, while the likelihood of pregnancy in your case may be reduced, it is not entirely eliminated.

Regarding emergency contraception, it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The standard emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, and some types can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be in preventing pregnancy.

Given your situation, if you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy and it has been less than 72 hours since the unprotected intercourse, it would be advisable to consider taking emergency contraception. If it has been more than 72 hours, you may still have options, such as the copper IUD, which can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy in your case may be lower due to the lack of ejaculation, it is not zero. If you are feeling anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, taking emergency contraception is a reasonable step to take, especially if you are within the effective time frame. Additionally, if you have any further concerns or questions, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized advice and support.

It's also worth noting that if you are actively trying to avoid pregnancy, discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider may be beneficial. There are various methods available, including hormonal contraceptives, IUDs, and barrier methods, each with its own effectiveness and suitability based on individual health needs and lifestyle.

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