Pregnancy Risks After Unprotected Contact: A Guide

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My girlfriend usually gets her period on the 14th of each month, and we had sexual intercourse (without genital contact) on the afternoon of the 7th.
However, I accidentally touched her private area with my hand that had come into contact with semen.
I bought Plan B (emergency contraception) for her on the afternoon of the 10th, which seems to be slightly over the 72-hour window.
Given that this incident occurred around her ovulation period and the delay in taking the medication, what is the likelihood of her becoming pregnant? I'm concerned that the risk of pregnancy may be increased due to these factors.
Please help me with this question.

A-Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/09/15

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If menstruation is expected on the 14th, then ovulation should occur around the 30th, so the chances of pregnancy are actually quite low.

Reply Date: 2003/09/15

More Info

Understanding the risks of pregnancy after unprotected sexual contact is crucial for anyone who is sexually active, especially when it comes to the timing of ovulation and the use of emergency contraception. In your case, you mentioned that your girlfriend typically has her menstrual cycle on the 14th of each month and that you had unprotected contact on the 7th, which is close to her ovulation period.
To begin with, it’s important to understand the menstrual cycle. Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. If your girlfriend's cycle is regular and she ovulates around the 14th, then having unprotected contact on the 7th could indeed coincide with her fertile window, which generally spans from about five days before ovulation to one day after. This means that there is a possibility of pregnancy if sperm is present during this time.

Regarding the emergency contraception (EC) you mentioned, it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness of EC decreases the longer you wait to take it. While you indicated that you purchased the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) on the 10th, which is slightly over the 72-hour window, it’s important to note that some types of ECPs can still be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse. However, the sooner it is taken, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy.

In terms of the likelihood of pregnancy in your situation, it is difficult to provide a precise percentage. Factors such as the timing of ovulation, the viability of the sperm, and the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive all play a role. If the contact was indeed close to ovulation and the emergency contraceptive was taken slightly late, there is a risk of pregnancy, but it is not guaranteed.

If your girlfriend experiences any signs of pregnancy, such as a missed period, nausea, or breast tenderness, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Additionally, if there are any concerns about the timing or effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive, it would be beneficial for her to speak with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on her health history and circumstances.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the timing of your unprotected contact and the subsequent delay in taking emergency contraception, the exact risk cannot be quantified without more specific information. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance and to discuss any concerns regarding sexual health and contraception.

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