Pregnancy Chances: Concerns After Unprotected Intercourse

Pregnancy probability

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask about my irregular menstrual cycle.
I have been using an app to track it, and May 11 was the first day of my fertile window.
I also had intimate relations with my boyfriend, and we used condoms throughout.
Afterward, I checked for any leaks by filling the condom with water.
I was concerned because I might have accidentally damaged it with my nails during the inspection, so I took emergency contraception (Ella) as soon as possible.
Since then, I have been experiencing premenstrual symptoms (discharge = leukorrhea, acne, lower back pain, and abdominal bloating).
I usually have similar symptoms before my period, but as of today, May 29, my period still hasn't arrived.
I had another intimate encounter with my boyfriend, and we used condoms again.
He always pulls out before ejaculation, and we checked the condom afterward.
However, while I was inspecting it, I might have accidentally poked a small hole with my nail (I usually squeeze it to check for leaks), which made me worry that there could have been a leak earlier as well.
I can't take emergency contraception again.
Additionally, I tested on May 11 (which was the 18th day of my cycle) and got a negative result (one line).
I would like to know what the chances of pregnancy are in this situation, as I am quite concerned.
My period is expected to arrive on May 30, but since my cycle is irregular, the app is just a reference.
Thank you, Doctor.

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/29

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, a negative pregnancy test 12 days after sexual intercourse indicates that you are unlikely to be pregnant.
You may wait another week, and if your period still hasn't arrived, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/05/29

More Info

When it comes to understanding the chances of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, especially in the context of irregular menstrual cycles and the use of emergency contraception, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, it's important to note that even with the use of condoms, there is still a small risk of pregnancy. Condoms can sometimes fail due to breakage or slippage, and if there was any compromise during the use (like a small tear caused by fingernails), it could potentially lead to sperm entering the vaginal canal. However, if you used the condom correctly and it was intact during intercourse, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

You mentioned that you took emergency contraception (Ella, or ulipristal acetate) shortly after the potential risk, which is a good step in reducing the chances of pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but they can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. The fact that you took it promptly is beneficial.

Now, regarding your symptoms—such as increased discharge, acne, back pain, and abdominal discomfort—these can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations, which can occur after taking emergency contraception. These symptoms may mimic premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and can be common in the days leading up to your period. Since your menstrual cycle is irregular, it can be challenging to predict when your period will arrive, and the stress and anxiety surrounding the possibility of pregnancy can also exacerbate these symptoms.

As for the pregnancy test you took on May 11, if it was negative, it suggests that you were not pregnant at that time. However, if your period does not arrive by the expected date (May 30), it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, especially if taken after a missed period. If you are still concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you could also consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which is more sensitive and can detect pregnancy earlier than a home test.

In summary, while there is a small chance of pregnancy due to the factors you've described, the use of condoms and emergency contraception significantly reduces that risk. Your symptoms are likely related to hormonal changes rather than an indication of pregnancy. If your period does not arrive soon, consider taking another pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. It's always best to discuss any concerns with a medical professional who can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pregnancy Risks: Unprotected Intercourse and Ovulation

The likelihood of pregnancy during the fertile window after having unprotected intercourse with your boyfriend twice in one day (with multiple thrusts) and ejaculation outside is significant.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Pregnancy Chances After Unprotected Intercourse

The likelihood of pregnancy depends on several factors, including the timing of ovulation, the presence of sperm in pre-ejaculate fluid, and the frequency of unprotected intercourse. In your case, since you had unprotected intercourse on 8/9 and 8/10, there is a possibility of ...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
On August 9th, during the fertile period, I had intercourse with my boyfriend for the first time using a condom, and it did not break. After that, we had unprotected intercourse but he withdrew before ejaculation. He penetrated deeply before pulling out. We had a few more session...

Concerns About Pregnancy Risk After Unprotected Intercourse: What to Do?

If your boyfriend did not ejaculate but there was some slippery fluid and there was friction near the vaginal opening, there is still a possibility of pregnancy, especially if this occurred a couple of days before ovulation. The fluid you mentioned could potentially contain sperm...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, there is a possibility of pregnancy. As long as there are active sperm in the vagina during the ovulation period, there is a chance of conception regardless of the method. I recommend that if your period is a week late, you should take a urine te...

Understanding Pregnancy Risks After Unprotected Intercourse: Key Insights

I have a history of irregular menstruation, and my last period was at the beginning of September, but I haven't had it since. I haven't had any sexual intercourse from my last period until now, but on the 14th, I had unprotected intercourse, although there was no ejacul...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse. 2. The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors. If your period is...