Your Fertility Window: Risks and Chances After Missed Period

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if this period is considered a dangerous time?

Hello, Doctor.
My last menstrual period started on July 16, and based on my usual cycle, I was expecting my period to arrive on August 25, but it didn't come.
I went to a Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic and took two doses of menstrual induction medication, but still no period.
Later, on September 9, I visited a Western medicine doctor who performed a pregnancy test and confirmed that I am not pregnant.
I then took a 7-day course of medication.
After finishing the menstrual induction medication on September 16, I did not use contraception.
My husband and I had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation inside on September 16, 17, and 19.
I would like to ask the doctor: what is the likelihood of conception during those days? Thank you for your response.

Xiao Zhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/09/20

Dr. Wu Zinan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On September 9, the pregnancy test was negative, which indicates that ovulation had not occurred before August 25.
However, ovulation could happen any day after that, and if intercourse occurs, there is a chance of conception.
If pregnancy is not desired, contraceptive measures should be taken; it is not just a matter of probability.

Reply Date: 2007/09/20

More Info

Understanding your fertility window is crucial, especially when you have experienced a missed period and are considering the implications of unprotected intercourse. Based on your description, your last menstrual period (LMP) started on July 16, and you expected your next period around August 25. However, since your period did not arrive, you sought medical advice and took medication to induce menstruation, which did not yield the desired results.
When it comes to missed periods, it is essential to understand that several factors can influence your menstrual cycle, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and underlying health conditions. The fact that you took two rounds of medication to induce your period indicates that your body may not have been ready to menstruate, which could also affect your ovulation cycle.

After taking the medication on September 16, you engaged in unprotected intercourse on September 16, 17, and 19. To assess the likelihood of conception during this time, we need to consider your ovulation window. Typically, ovulation occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If we assume a regular cycle of approximately 28 days, ovulation would likely occur around August 25. However, since your cycle has been disrupted, pinpointing your ovulation can be challenging.

If you did not menstruate in August and your body was still adjusting, it is possible that you may not have ovulated at all during that cycle. If ovulation did not occur, the chances of conception from intercourse during that time would be significantly reduced. However, if your body did manage to ovulate after taking the medication, the days you had intercourse could fall within your fertile window, which typically spans about five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself.

Given the uncertainty surrounding your cycle, it is difficult to provide a definitive answer regarding the likelihood of conception. However, if you had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window, the chances of becoming pregnant could be higher. The general probability of conception from unprotected intercourse during the fertile window is about 20-30% per cycle for healthy couples.

If you are concerned about your fertility or the irregularity of your menstrual cycle, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist. They can conduct further evaluations, including hormone level testing and ultrasound examinations, to assess your reproductive health and provide tailored advice.

In summary, while the chances of conception depend on various factors, including the timing of ovulation and the regularity of your menstrual cycle, it is essential to monitor your body’s signals and seek medical advice if you continue to experience irregularities. If you do not get your period in the coming weeks, consider taking a pregnancy test or consulting with your doctor for further guidance.

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