Emergency Contraception and Pregnancy Chances: A Guide

Emergency contraceptive pill

I would like to ask the doctor: I am 27 years old and my girlfriend is 32 (she has two children).
We have had unprotected intercourse during her ovulation period (from the 25th to the 6th of the following month) for several consecutive days, and she takes emergency contraception after intercourse.
Sometimes she takes preemptive contraception (but she occasionally forgets to take it, and sometimes takes one the next day after intercourse).
Her menstrual cycle usually starts between the 8th and 11th of each month, but this month it is already a week late.
I asked her if she experienced any bleeding while on contraception, and she seems unsure if she did or not.
It feels like she might have had some, but it was not much.
On the fifth day of her missed period, she took a pregnancy test, which showed one line.
I have previously visited a urologist who mentioned that natural conception might be difficult for me (due to low sperm count and motility), so I was prescribed zinc supplements, which I take during intercourse.
I really want to have a child, and while my girlfriend is not currently looking to conceive, she would carry the baby if it happened.
I would like to ask the doctor if the chances of pregnancy are high in this situation, or should we wait a while longer to take another pregnancy test?

kevin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/17

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

There are various possible reasons for a delayed menstrual period, such as stress, illness, or pregnancy.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist for an examination.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/07/17

More Info

Understanding emergency contraception and the chances of pregnancy is crucial, especially when engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse during a woman's fertile window. Based on the information provided, let's break down the situation and address your concerns.

Understanding the Fertile Window and Pregnancy Chances
The fertile window typically spans from about five days before ovulation to the day of ovulation itself. For a woman with a regular menstrual cycle, ovulation usually occurs around 14 days before the start of her next period. In your case, if your girlfriend's cycle is usually between 28 to 31 days, and her period is expected between the 8th and 11th of the month, ovulation likely occurred between the 25th of the previous month and the 6th of this month, which aligns with the days you mentioned having unprotected intercourse.

Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception (EC) is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be effective up to 5 days after. Your girlfriend's use of emergency contraception is a positive step in reducing the risk of pregnancy, but it's important to note that EC is not 100% effective. Factors such as timing of administration and the timing of ovulation can influence its effectiveness.

Delayed Menstruation and Pregnancy Testing
The delay in your girlfriend's menstruation could be attributed to several factors, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, or the use of emergency contraception. While she has taken pregnancy tests that returned negative results, it is essential to consider the timing of the test. If the test was taken too early, it might not detect the pregnancy hormone (hCG) if conception occurred. Generally, it is advisable to wait at least a week after a missed period to take a pregnancy test for more accurate results.

Recommendations
1. Wait and Retest: Since her period is already a week late, it would be prudent to wait a few more days and retest. If the test remains negative and her period does not start, she should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your girlfriend's history of using emergency contraception and the irregularities in her menstrual cycle, it would be beneficial for her to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on her menstrual health, the effectiveness of the contraception used, and any necessary follow-up tests.

3. Consider Regular Contraception: If your girlfriend is not currently ready for pregnancy, discussing a more reliable form of contraception might be beneficial. This could include hormonal birth control methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), or other long-term options that could help prevent unintended pregnancies.

4. Monitor Symptoms: If your girlfriend experiences any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or other concerning signs, she should seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, while the chances of pregnancy exist given the circumstances described, the use of emergency contraception and the timing of sexual intercourse play significant roles in determining the outcome. It is essential to wait for a more accurate pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. Open communication between you and your girlfriend regarding family planning and contraception will be key in navigating this situation effectively.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

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Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is always best to take preventive measures beforehand. Do not rely on the safe period. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.