Can You Get Pregnant from Intercourse Without Protection?

Is it possible to get pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
My menstrual cycle started on March 18 and ended on March 23.
On the 23rd, I had intercourse with my boyfriend without a condom, and we used the withdrawal method.
Is there a risk of pregnancy in this situation?

Junzi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/24

Dr. Chen Xuhui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

For someone with a regular menstrual cycle, where menstruation occurs every 28 to 30 days, engaging in sexual intercourse on the 5th day of the menstrual period is considered a relatively safe period with a low chance of pregnancy.
However, nothing is guaranteed, which is why it is referred to as a relatively safe period.
If menstruation is delayed, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist for a pregnancy test for greater safety.
It is also recommended that women who are sexually active continue to use contraceptive measures.

Reply Date: 2006/03/24

More Info

When it comes to the risk of pregnancy from unprotected intercourse, several factors must be considered. In your case, you mentioned that your menstrual cycle started on March 18 and ended on March 23, and you had unprotected intercourse on March 23, using the withdrawal method (also known as "pulling out").
Firstly, understanding your menstrual cycle is crucial. The average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. Ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of your next period. If your cycle is regular and approximately 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around day 14, which would be around April 1 in your case. Engaging in unprotected intercourse on March 23, which is just a few days after your period ended, would generally be considered a lower-risk time for pregnancy, as it is closer to your menstrual phase than to ovulation.

However, it is important to note that sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days. This means that if you were to ovulate earlier than expected, there could still be a risk of pregnancy. The withdrawal method is not a reliable form of contraception, as pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and it can be difficult to withdraw in time.
In your situation, while the risk of pregnancy may be lower due to the timing of your intercourse relative to your menstrual cycle, it is not zero. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period is late. Most home pregnancy tests are accurate when taken after a missed period.

Additionally, if you are considering using contraception in the future, there are many effective options available that can help prevent unintended pregnancies. Barrier methods, such as condoms, hormonal methods (like birth control pills, patches, or injections), and long-acting reversible contraceptives (like IUDs) are all effective ways to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

In summary, while the likelihood of pregnancy from your described situation may be lower, it is not impossible. If you have concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide you with personalized advice and options for contraception moving forward.

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