Does Getting Your Period After Intercourse Mean Low Pregnancy Risk? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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If your period starts the day after having intercourse, it generally indicates a low likelihood of pregnancy?


Hello, doctor.
I had sexual intercourse on June 30th, using a condom, and there was no ejaculation inside the condom (the ejaculation occurred during oral sex).
My menstrual cycle is irregular, with varying flow and color each time.
I often experience menstruation around the same time as my female friends; in fact, my friend started her period on July 1st, and I also got my period for about 6 to 7 days.
I would like to know if this means I am unlikely to be pregnant.
Later, on July 10th, I used two different brands of pregnancy tests with morning urine, and both were negative.
Can I feel reassured now, or should I take another test after 14 days just to be safe? Thank you, doctor.

An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/13

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, you should not be pregnant if you have your period.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/07/13

More Info


When it comes to understanding the relationship between menstrual cycles, sexual intercourse, and the risk of pregnancy, it's essential to consider several factors. Based on your description, you had sexual intercourse on June 30 and experienced your menstrual period shortly after, which lasted about 6 to 7 days. You also mentioned using a condom during intercourse, which is a significant factor in reducing the risk of pregnancy.

Firstly, it's important to clarify that having a menstrual period after sexual intercourse typically indicates that you are not pregnant. Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining, which occurs when a fertilized egg does not implant in the uterus. Therefore, if you had a full menstrual period following intercourse, it is generally a strong sign that you are not pregnant.

You also mentioned that you took two different pregnancy tests on July 10, using morning urine, and both tests returned negative results. Home pregnancy tests are quite reliable, especially when used correctly and at the right time. Most tests can detect pregnancy about a week after a missed period, so testing on July 10, which is about 10 days after your intercourse, should provide a reliable result. Given that you received negative results, it further supports the likelihood that you are not pregnant.

However, since you have irregular menstrual cycles, it can sometimes be challenging to predict ovulation and the fertile window accurately. Irregular cycles can lead to uncertainty about when you ovulate, which is the time when you are most likely to conceive if you have unprotected intercourse. In general, the fertile window is considered to be about 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. If you are unsure about your cycle, tracking ovulation signs, such as changes in cervical mucus or using ovulation predictor kits, can be helpful.

Regarding your concern about whether you should test again in 14 days, it is generally not necessary if you have already had a negative test and your menstrual period has occurred. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as missed periods, significant changes in your cycle, or any signs of pregnancy (like nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue), it may be wise to test again or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, based on the information you provided, it is unlikely that you are pregnant given that you had a menstrual period following intercourse and received negative pregnancy test results. If you continue to have concerns about your menstrual cycle or reproductive health, consider discussing them with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and support. Regular check-ups can also help monitor your reproductive health and address any irregularities in your menstrual cycle.

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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand and not to rely on the safe period. If there is still bleeding, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

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Hello, the menstrual period is also considered a safe period, so the chances of pregnancy are low. However, engaging in sexual intercourse during menstruation can be less healthy due to the presence of blood. Wishing you good health.

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Hello, it should be the safe period, so the likelihood of pregnancy is probably low. Wishing you good health.

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