Pregnancy Chances After Menstrual Irregularities and Contraceptive Use

Probability of Pregnancy

Every time we had sexual intercourse, we used a condom and checked for any holes afterward with water.
My last menstrual period started on July 5, and we had intercourse on July 7.
My period ended on July 10, and we did not have sexual intercourse after that.
On July 13, we engaged in some foreplay, and my hand may have come into contact with bodily fluids, but there was no sexual intercourse.
On July 14, just to be safe, I took emergency contraception.
My next period started on July 20; the first day was light, the second and third days were the heaviest, and by the fourth day, it gradually decreased until it was almost gone by the sixth day.
Is this a normal menstrual cycle? Then, I had another period on August 26.
During this time, we took pregnancy tests 5 or 6 times, and they all showed a single line.
The August 26 period started light on the first day, was heaviest on the second and third days (I used overnight pads, and there was still some leakage), and was light on the fourth day.
I have anemia, but I ate some iron-rich foods that day, so the fifth day was heavier again, then it gradually decreased on the sixth day, and by the seventh day, it was almost gone.
There was dark, coffee-colored discharge, which I have experienced before.
I have been taking nutritional supplements to improve my health.
I would like to know if these two periods are genuine menstrual cycles and if there is still a possibility of pregnancy, as I have been experiencing occasional lower abdominal pain and nausea upon waking.
I read online that some people can still be pregnant while having their period, so I wanted to ask the doctor.

nn, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it should be menstruation, not pregnancy.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/09/14

More Info

Understanding the chances of pregnancy after experiencing menstrual irregularities and contraceptive use can be quite complex. Based on the information provided, it appears that you have been diligent in using condoms during sexual intercourse and have taken emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") as a precaution. Let's break down the situation and address your concerns regarding your menstrual cycles, potential pregnancy, and any symptoms you may be experiencing.

Firstly, it is important to note that the use of condoms is a reliable method of contraception when used correctly. Additionally, taking emergency contraception shortly after unprotected intercourse can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. The effectiveness of emergency contraception is highest when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, and it can still be effective up to 5 days, although the efficacy decreases over time.

Regarding your menstrual cycles, it seems you experienced two menstrual periods after the use of emergency contraception. The first period you described following the emergency contraceptive was characterized by a lighter flow, which can be a common side effect of hormonal contraceptives, including emergency contraception. It is not unusual for menstrual cycles to become irregular or for the flow to change in terms of volume and duration after taking such medications. The second period you mentioned also had variations in flow, which can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations, especially if you have a history of menstrual irregularities.

The presence of dark brown or coffee-colored discharge towards the end of your menstrual period is typically old blood and can be a normal finding. However, if you are experiencing abdominal pain and nausea, it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy. While it is true that some women can experience bleeding during early pregnancy, this is often different from a regular menstrual period. The fact that you have taken multiple pregnancy tests and received negative results is reassuring. Home pregnancy tests are generally accurate when taken after a missed period, but if you continue to have symptoms or if your periods remain irregular, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, based on your description, it appears that you have experienced two menstrual periods following the use of emergency contraception, and the negative pregnancy tests suggest that you are not pregnant. However, if you have ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle, symptoms of nausea, or abdominal pain, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform a more thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly a blood test, to rule out any underlying issues and provide you with peace of mind.

In conclusion, while the chances of pregnancy seem low given your contraceptive practices and the negative pregnancy tests, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist. They can provide personalized advice and support based on your specific situation.

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