Pregnancy Chances with Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Your Questions Answered

Probability of Pregnancy

My menstrual cycle is quite irregular, ranging from 17 to over 30 days.
The previous cycles were from September 14 to September 20, and the last one was from October 1 to October 6.
On October 7 and 8, I engaged in oral sex with my boyfriend, and he touched me (his fingers entered my vagina), which caused pain, so he stopped.
During those two days, there was no ejaculation inside or penetration (one day he ejaculated in my mouth, and on another day, he used his hand to finish while I was already dressed).
Although we were both undressed, I moved away, so there should not have been any genital contact, and he had not ejaculated at that time.
As a result, I experienced bleeding from October 12 to October 17.
Initially, I thought it was ovulation bleeding, but I noticed the flow increased, requiring the use of sanitary pads, and the duration exceeded what I expected for ovulation bleeding, resembling a menstrual period.
However, my period had just ended a few days prior.
I have been tracking my cycle using an app, and while some indicate that my period should come in a week, one app shows a delay of two days.
The one indicating a delay has been used for a longer time.
1.
If there was no penetration or ejaculation inside, is it unlikely that I could be pregnant? He ejaculated in my mouth and I used my hand to finish and then wiped it off.
2.
Is the bleeding from October 12 to 17 likely to be my period?
3.
Which app should I trust regarding my cycle, and when is my next period likely to arrive? It still hasn't come (I am under a lot of stress as a student, and my sleep schedule is irregular, going to bed around 12-1 AM and waking up around 6 AM).
4.
I've noticed an increase in libido and emotional instability these days.
Is this due to ovulation or the impending arrival of my period?

Abc, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/28

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is recommended to practice safe behaviors to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, while also preventing unintended pregnancies.
If there is a delay in your menstrual cycle, you can take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for confirmation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/10/28

More Info

Understanding irregular menstrual cycles and the chances of pregnancy can be quite complex, especially when various factors come into play. Based on the information you've provided, let's address your questions one by one.

1. Pregnancy Chances Without Intercourse: If there was no vaginal intercourse and no ejaculation inside the vagina, the chances of pregnancy are significantly reduced. However, it is important to note that pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if there was any contact between the genital areas, there is a very small risk of pregnancy. In your case, since you mentioned that there was no penetration and ejaculation occurred outside, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is low, but not entirely zero.

2. Understanding Your Bleeding from October 12-17: The bleeding you experienced shortly after your last menstrual period could be due to several factors. It could be a breakthrough bleeding, which sometimes occurs with irregular cycles, or it could be related to ovulation. However, since you mentioned that the bleeding increased and required the use of sanitary pads, it is more likely to be a menstrual period rather than ovulation spotting. If the bleeding resembles your typical menstrual flow, it is reasonable to consider it as your period.

3. Tracking Your Cycle with Apps: Cycle tracking apps can be helpful, but they are not always accurate, especially if your cycles are irregular. The discrepancies you see in the predictions may be due to the app's algorithm, which often relies on past cycle data to make predictions. Given your irregular cycles, it might be more beneficial to track your cycle manually for a few months to establish a clearer pattern. If your cycles continue to be irregular, consider consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

4. Changes in Libido and Mood: Fluctuations in libido and mood can be influenced by hormonal changes throughout your cycle. If you are approaching ovulation, it is common for many women to experience an increase in sexual desire. Stress and irregular sleep patterns can also significantly affect your mood and libido. If you are under considerable stress from studying, this could also contribute to your emotional fluctuations.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy seem low based on your description, it's essential to monitor your cycle and any changes in your body. If you continue to experience irregularities or have concerns about your menstrual health, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest further evaluation if necessary. Additionally, managing stress and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help improve your overall well-being and may contribute to more regular menstrual cycles.

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