Could I Be Pregnant? Risks After Unprotected Sex - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When considering the possibility of pregnancy after unprotected sex, it's important to understand the timing of ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and the nature of the sexual encounter. In your case, your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on February 19, and you had unprotected sex on February 20. Given that the average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days after the first day of the last period. This means that ovulation would likely have occurred around March 5, assuming a regular cycle.

Since you had unprotected sex just one day after her period began, it is generally considered to be outside of the fertile window. However, sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if she had a shorter cycle or if ovulation occurred earlier than expected, there is still a possibility of pregnancy.

Now, regarding the missed period: if your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is regular and she has not had her period by March 22, it is advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. The best time to take a pregnancy test is after a missed period, as this allows for the most accurate results.

If the test is positive, it would indicate that she is likely pregnant, and it would be important to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. If the test is negative and her period still does not arrive, she may want to consult a healthcare professional to explore other potential reasons for the missed period, such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or other health issues.

In summary, while the timing of your sexual encounter suggests a lower risk of pregnancy, the missed period is a significant indicator that warrants further investigation. Taking a home pregnancy test is the most straightforward next step to determine whether pregnancy has occurred. If there are any concerns or questions, both of you should feel comfortable discussing them with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.