Pregnancy Chances: Concerns About Safe Period and Symptoms

Pregnancy probability

Hello, doctor.
My girlfriend has a regular menstrual cycle, and she has an app to track her fertile days.
We had sexual intercourse on December 28, which was a few days before her expected period on December 30.
We did not have ejaculation inside or outside; we only had unprotected penetration for about a minute, with a couple of brief insertions totaling around a minute, and there was no ejaculation.
I used a condom when I ejaculated at the end.
Afterward, we checked the condom for leaks, and it was fine.
However, my girlfriend's period has not arrived yet (it was supposed to come around December 30).
She had been taking cold medication (5-6 pills at a time) before we had intercourse, which she took quite a bit of.
We are concerned about whether she might be pregnant due to these factors (medication and stress) causing a delay.
I later learned that pre-ejaculate fluid and prostate fluid can contain sperm, which has made me anxious.
It has been a week since the sexual encounter, and today my girlfriend mentioned feeling nauseous.
I want to know if it is possible to feel nauseous so soon after conception, or could it be due to her cold and other health issues? I am really worried.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/05

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the likelihood of pregnancy should be low.
It's best to observe for now.
If your period still hasn't arrived in a week, I recommend seeing a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/01/05

More Info

When it comes to understanding the chances of pregnancy, especially in the context of sexual activity and menstrual cycles, it’s essential to consider several factors, including the timing of intercourse, the use of contraception, and individual physiological responses.

From your description, it seems that you and your girlfriend engaged in sexual activity during what you believed to be a safe period, just a couple of days before her expected menstrual cycle. The concept of a "safe period" is based on the ovulation cycle, where the most fertile days are typically around ovulation, which occurs approximately 14 days before the next expected period. However, this method can be unreliable, especially if menstrual cycles are irregular. Since you mentioned that your girlfriend has a regular cycle, it may provide some reassurance, but it’s important to note that no method of calculating safe periods is foolproof.

You also mentioned that there was no ejaculation inside her, and that you used a condom during the final part of intercourse. This significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, as the primary risk comes from sperm being deposited in the vaginal canal. However, it’s worth noting that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, which is why even withdrawal methods or external ejaculation carry some risk of pregnancy.

Regarding your girlfriend's delayed period, there are several potential explanations. Stress and anxiety can significantly affect menstrual cycles, leading to delays. Additionally, the consumption of medications, such as cold medicine, can also impact hormonal balance and potentially delay menstruation. It’s important to consider that while some early pregnancy symptoms can occur shortly after conception, such as nausea, they typically do not manifest until a few weeks into the pregnancy. Therefore, experiencing nausea just a week after potential conception is more likely related to other factors, such as illness or anxiety, rather than pregnancy.

If your girlfriend's period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally reliable and can provide clarity on whether or not she is pregnant. If the test is positive, or if her period continues to be delayed, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In terms of your concerns about potential pregnancy and the implications of abortion, it’s crucial to approach this topic with care. If pregnancy is confirmed and your girlfriend considers abortion, it’s important to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Abortion is generally safe when performed by a licensed professional, but it does carry some risks, as with any medical procedure. Recovery times can vary, but many individuals return to their normal activities within a few days.

In conclusion, while the risk of pregnancy in your situation appears low, it’s essential to remain informed and proactive. Encourage your girlfriend to take a pregnancy test if her period does not arrive soon, and to consult with a healthcare provider for any further concerns. Open communication between both of you is key to navigating this situation with understanding and support.

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