Is There a Chance of Pregnancy After Irregular Menstrual Cycle?

Is there a chance of getting pregnant?

I came in last month on February 22, and after some light bleeding on March 1, it ended.
Because I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), my doctor prescribed me Diane-35 (ethinyl estradiol and cyproterone acetate).
I started taking the first pill on February 26 and continued for 21 days until March 18.
During this time, I had intercourse on February 5, March 5, and March 10.
Currently, my basal body temperature has been above 36.5°C for the past 10 consecutive days.
However, on March 19, my period suddenly started, but the flow is light.
Is this normal? Is there a possibility of pregnancy?

Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/19

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, Tingqing has some contraceptive effect, so pregnancy is unlikely.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/19

More Info

When it comes to the possibility of pregnancy after experiencing an irregular menstrual cycle, there are several factors to consider. Irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by various conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, and other underlying health issues. In your case, since you have been diagnosed with PCOS and have been prescribed medication (Tingqing tablets), it is essential to understand how these factors may influence your fertility.

First, let's address the irregularity of your menstrual cycle. You mentioned that your last menstrual period started on February 22 and ended on March 1, with some light bleeding afterward. Following that, you took the prescribed medication for 21 days, which can help regulate your cycle and potentially improve ovulation. The fact that you have been tracking your basal body temperature (BBT) and have observed a consistent rise above 36.5°C for ten days is a positive sign, as it may indicate that you have ovulated.
However, the sudden onset of your period on March 19, albeit with light flow, raises some questions. It is not uncommon for women with PCOS to experience breakthrough bleeding or irregular spotting, especially when they are on hormonal medications. This could be a result of your body adjusting to the medication or a sign of an anovulatory cycle, where ovulation does not occur despite the rise in BBT.

Now, regarding the possibility of pregnancy: while it is certainly possible to conceive with an irregular cycle, it can be more challenging. The key to conception is timing intercourse around ovulation. Since you mentioned having intercourse on February 5, March 5, and March 10, it is important to consider whether these dates aligned with your ovulation window. If you did ovulate during this time, there is a chance of pregnancy. However, if your menstrual cycle remains irregular, predicting ovulation can be difficult.

To determine if you are pregnant, you may want to consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period does not follow the expected pattern or if you experience any pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue. It is also advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They may recommend additional tests, such as blood tests to measure hormone levels, to assess your reproductive health and the likelihood of pregnancy.

In summary, while there is a chance of pregnancy after experiencing an irregular menstrual cycle, it is essential to monitor your cycle closely, understand your ovulation patterns, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current treatment plan, helping you navigate your journey toward conception.

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