Pregnancy Chances After Protected Intercourse: Your Concerns Addressed - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to assessing the risk of pregnancy after protected intercourse, especially during a woman's fertile window, it's essential to consider several factors. Based on your description, you had your menstrual periods on August 23 and September 24, and then engaged in sexual intercourse on October 9. You mentioned that you used a condom throughout the encounter, and your boyfriend did not ejaculate. You also checked the condom for any damage afterward, which is a good practice.

Firstly, using a condom significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy. When used correctly, condoms are about 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, it's important to note that no contraceptive method is 100% effective. The fact that you did not experience ejaculation during intercourse further lowers the likelihood of pregnancy, as sperm is the necessary component for fertilization.

You also mentioned that you checked the condom for any tears or breaks, which is crucial. If the condom was intact and there was no ejaculation, the chances of pregnancy are minimal. However, it's worth noting that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, albeit in much smaller quantities. If there was any contact with pre-ejaculate fluid and it reached the vaginal area, there is a slight risk of pregnancy, but this is generally considered low.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, if your periods are typically regular, you can estimate your ovulation window. Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If your cycle is around 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around October 7, placing your intercourse on October 9 just after your ovulation window. This timing further decreases the likelihood of pregnancy, as the egg is viable for fertilization for about 12-24 hours after ovulation.

As for the delay in your menstrual cycle, stress and anxiety can indeed affect your menstrual cycle. The body can react to emotional stressors by delaying ovulation or menstruation. If you are feeling anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, this stress could contribute to a delayed period.
You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on October 22 and again on October 25, both of which showed a single line, indicating a negative result. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when taken after a missed period, but testing too early can sometimes yield false negatives. Since your tests were negative and considering the circumstances of your intercourse, it is unlikely that you are pregnant.

If your period does not arrive soon, and you continue to feel anxious, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide further testing or evaluation to determine the cause of your missed period and offer reassurance.
In summary, based on the information provided, the chances of pregnancy are low due to the use of a condom, the absence of ejaculation, and the timing of your menstrual cycle. However, if you remain concerned or if your period does not arrive, seeking medical advice would be a prudent step.