Pregnancy Risks: Can You Get Pregnant with Protection?

Can I get pregnant? What is the probability of pregnancy?

Hello Doctor, today is November 12.
My menstrual cycles in September and October have been a bit irregular.
The ovulation period in September was from September 3 to September 12, with the ovulation day on September 10.
My menstrual period was from September 25 to October 1.
The ovulation period in October was from October 4 to October 13, with the ovulation day on October 11, and my menstrual period was from October 26 to November 1.
The ovulation period in November is from November 11 to November 17, with the ovulation day on November 15 (all ovulation days were calculated using a mobile app).
My boyfriend and I had sexual intercourse on November 12, but we used a condom throughout and also withdrew before ejaculation (condom + withdrawal).
I am unsure if changing positions multiple times increases the risk of pregnancy.
Afterward, I checked the condom by filling it with water, and it did not break.
However, I am worried about the possibility of pregnancy from having intercourse during the fertile period, and I noticed some brown discharge on my underwear, which I believe is normal ovulation discharge.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy?

Jiao lü, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should not be pregnant; just monitor the situation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/11/12

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy, particularly in the context of using protection during sexual intercourse, it’s essential to consider several factors. Based on your description, you engaged in sexual activity on November 12 while using a condom and also practiced withdrawal before ejaculation. You also mentioned that you checked the condom for any breaks afterward, which is a responsible step to take.

First and foremost, using condoms is one of the most effective methods of contraception when used correctly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), condoms have an effectiveness rate of about 85% with typical use, meaning that while they significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy, they are not 100% foolproof. The effectiveness can be compromised if the condom is not used properly, if it breaks, or if it slips off during intercourse. However, since you checked the condom and found it intact, the likelihood of pregnancy is considerably reduced.

Regarding the timing of your sexual activity in relation to your ovulation cycle, it’s important to note that sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days. Therefore, if you had sexual intercourse during your fertile window (which typically includes the days leading up to and including ovulation), there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you mentioned that your ovulation period was around November 11-17, having intercourse on November 12 falls within that window, which could increase the risk of pregnancy.

The presence of brown discharge you observed could be related to various factors, including ovulation, implantation bleeding (if pregnancy occurred), or even the onset of your menstrual cycle. It’s not uncommon for women to experience changes in discharge throughout their cycle, and brown discharge can sometimes indicate old blood being expelled from the body.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, but some can detect pregnancy hormones as early as a few days before your expected period. If the test is positive, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance.

In summary, while the use of condoms and withdrawal significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, no method is entirely foolproof. Given your situation, the chances of pregnancy are relatively low, especially since you took precautions. However, if you have any doubts or experience any unusual symptoms, it’s always best to seek medical advice for peace of mind and to discuss your options moving forward.

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