Pregnancy Risks After Unprotected Intercourse - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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What is the likelihood of getting pregnant?


Hello doctor, I had unprotected intercourse with my girlfriend on Sunday, but there was no ejaculation inside.
On Monday, she took the morning-after pill (36 hours after intercourse).
Her menstrual cycle is irregular, typically coming once every one to two months.
What is the likelihood of her becoming pregnant?

Qi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/06

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Dear Qi,
If emergency contraception is taken within 72 hours (the sooner after intercourse, the better), the likelihood of pregnancy is low.
However, if your period is more than 3 months late, it is still advisable to visit a gynecologist for an examination and a pregnancy test.

Dr.
Huang Zifei, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2022/07/06

More Info


When it comes to understanding pregnancy risks after unprotected intercourse, several factors come into play, especially in your situation where you had unprotected sex and subsequently took emergency contraception. Let's break down the key elements involved.

1. Timing of Intercourse and Ovulation: The likelihood of pregnancy largely depends on the timing of intercourse in relation to ovulation. Sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive tract for up to five days, and if intercourse occurs close to the time of ovulation, the chances of conception increase significantly. Since your girlfriend has irregular menstrual cycles, predicting ovulation can be challenging. If she was close to ovulating when you had unprotected intercourse, the risk of pregnancy would be higher.

2. Emergency Contraception: You mentioned that your girlfriend took emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") within 36 hours after intercourse. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours. They work primarily by delaying ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, ECPs may be less effective. However, taking the pill within the timeframe you mentioned still significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy.

3. Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Since your girlfriend has irregular periods, it complicates the assessment of her fertile window. Irregular cycles can make it difficult to predict ovulation, which can lead to uncertainty about the risk of pregnancy. If she does not track her cycles or ovulation signs, it may be hard to determine when she is most fertile.

4. Pregnancy Testing: If your girlfriend misses her period or experiences unusual symptoms, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test. Most home pregnancy tests are reliable and can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period. If she takes a test and it’s negative but still suspects she might be pregnant, she should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Potential Risks of Alcohol Consumption: You mentioned concerns about drinking alcohol after unprotected intercourse. If your girlfriend is indeed pregnant, consuming alcohol, especially in the early stages, can pose risks to fetal development. Alcohol exposure during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which can cause a range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems. If she is pregnant, it is advisable to avoid alcohol entirely.

6. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: Given the complexities of your situation, including the irregular menstrual cycle and the use of emergency contraception, it is crucial for your girlfriend to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice, conduct necessary tests, and discuss options moving forward.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy due to unprotected intercourse, taking emergency contraception significantly reduces that risk, especially when taken promptly. However, the irregularity of your girlfriend's menstrual cycle adds uncertainty to the situation. Monitoring for any signs of pregnancy and consulting a healthcare professional will be essential steps in addressing your concerns.

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Hello, the probability is likely low, but it is advisable to use contraception at all times for safety. Wishing you good health.

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Hello, if you have taken contraceptive measures, you should not be pregnant. If you are still concerned, you may consider taking emergency contraception. Wishing you good health.

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