Concerns About Pregnancy After Withdrawal Method: What to Know

Concerns about pregnancy after external ejaculation?

My menstrual cycle is usually irregular, but my last period started on April 1.
I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on April 20 and 21.
I took a pregnancy test two weeks later, which was negative, but I noticed a faint second line on the test after it had been sitting for a while, which made me concerned.
I visited a gynecologist, who performed an ultrasound and a pregnancy test, and then prescribed me medication to induce my period.
I have taken the medication for three days, but as of today, May 14, my period still hasn't arrived.
I am very worried about the possibility of being pregnant and whether I need to have a blood test.

g, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, in obstetrics and gynecology, a negative pregnancy test is usually required before a doctor prescribes menstrual induction medication.
Typically, menstruation should occur within a week after taking the medication.
You can wait a little longer to see if it comes.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/05/14

More Info

When it comes to concerns about pregnancy after using the withdrawal method, there are several factors to consider. The withdrawal method, also known as coitus interruptus, involves the male partner withdrawing before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. The effectiveness of this method largely depends on the male partner's ability to withdraw in time and the presence of pre-ejaculatory fluid, which can contain sperm.

In your case, you mentioned having irregular menstrual cycles, which can complicate the situation. Irregular cycles can make it difficult to predict ovulation, increasing the chances of unplanned pregnancy, especially if intercourse occurs close to the ovulation window. The timeline you provided indicates that you had your last menstrual period on April 1, and you had intercourse on April 20 and 21. Given that ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the next period, there is a possibility that you could have been in your fertile window during those dates.

You took a home pregnancy test two weeks after intercourse, which returned negative. However, you noted that a faint line appeared after some time, which can sometimes indicate a very early pregnancy or could be a result of evaporation lines. It’s important to follow the instructions on the pregnancy test carefully, as reading the results outside the recommended time frame can lead to confusion.

Since you have not yet received your period as of May 14, it would be prudent to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. A blood test for pregnancy (beta-hCG) is more sensitive than a home urine test and can provide a more definitive answer regarding whether you are pregnant. Additionally, your healthcare provider can assess your overall health and any potential implications of your irregular menstrual cycles.

If you are indeed pregnant, your healthcare provider can discuss your options and provide guidance on prenatal care. If you are not pregnant, they can help you understand your irregular cycles and explore potential underlying causes, such as hormonal imbalances or other health issues.

In summary, while the withdrawal method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not entirely reliable, especially with irregular menstrual cycles. Given your concerns and the absence of your period, it is advisable to seek medical advice for a blood test and further evaluation. This will help clarify your situation and ensure that you receive appropriate care moving forward.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant from Withdrawal Method? Understanding Your Symptoms

My last menstrual period started on February 15, and I usually have a cycle of about 28 days, so my next period was expected around March 15. I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on March 2 and 3, which I found out are considered fertile days according to online resources. ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. Additionally, early pregnancy does not always present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make ...

Understanding Pregnancy Risks After Intercourse with Withdrawal Method

Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, and although we practiced withdrawal before ejaculation and cleaned up afterward, I feel there might be a small amount of semen left inside. This occurred on October 6, and according to her...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is recommended to take emergency contraception as a precaution. Wishing you good health.

Understanding the Chances of Pregnancy After Withdrawal Method

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. I had a blood test at the beginning of January, and the doctor mentioned that I have symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Although my period is already 8 to 9 days late, I was prescribed ovulation medication from Jan...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low, but it's important to use contraception at all times. Wishing you good health.

Concerns About Pregnancy After Abortion: Your Questions Answered

After undergoing an abortion in mid-July, I took medication for my menstrual cycle, and my period started on August 11, lasting for four days. After that, I experienced intermittent light bleeding. On September 4, I had sexual intercourse with withdrawal method and cleaned the va...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The likelihood of pregnancy is low, but there is still a slight possibility. It is recommended to use contraceptive pills or condoms for more reliable contraception. Withdrawal method or vaginal douching are not considered reliable contraceptive methods. If menstruation does not ...