Is There a Chance of Pregnancy After Unprotected Intercourse?

Is there a possibility of pregnancy?

Hello Doctor: My menstrual period started on July 16 and I had intercourse on the sixth day, July 21 (on this day there was only a little menstrual blood left, but mostly brownish discharge).
We did not use a condom and practiced withdrawal, but it seems that some semen accidentally got on the groin area (or pubic hair).
Is there a possibility of pregnancy in this situation? Also, at this time, should it be considered a safe period rather than an ovulation period? (I had been taking oral contraceptives continuously for eight months, but this time I planned to take a break, so I did not continue taking the pills after the fifth day of my period.
Thank you for your reference.)

J, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, theoretically the probability should be low.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/07/22

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, it is essential to understand the menstrual cycle and the timing of ovulation. Based on the information provided, you had your menstrual period starting on July 16 and engaged in sexual intercourse on July 21, which is typically around the time when a woman might be transitioning from her menstrual period to her follicular phase.
In a standard 28-day menstrual cycle, ovulation usually occurs around day 14. However, cycles can vary significantly in length and regularity. Since you mentioned that you had been on birth control pills for eight months and were taking a break, it is crucial to note that the hormonal balance in your body may still be adjusting, which can affect ovulation timing.

Regarding the specific question of whether there is a chance of pregnancy from the intercourse on July 21, the likelihood is relatively low, especially since you were at the tail end of your menstrual period. However, it is important to note that sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. If you were to ovulate earlier than expected, there could be a slight chance of pregnancy. The presence of any semen near the vaginal opening, even if not directly deposited inside, could theoretically lead to pregnancy, although this is less common.

As for your concern about whether this time falls within a "safe period," it is generally considered that the days immediately following menstruation are less likely to result in pregnancy. However, this is not a foolproof method of contraception, as individual cycles can vary.
If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your next period is late. Additionally, if you are looking to avoid pregnancy, it is advisable to use reliable contraception methods consistently, especially after discontinuing birth control pills, as your body may take some time to return to its natural cycle.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy from the described encounter are low, they are not zero. If you have further concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

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Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.