Can You Get Pregnant After Unprotected Sex on Day 3 of Your Period?

Sexual intercourse on the third day of menstruation?

I would like to ask if having unprotected intercourse on the third day of my menstrual period, followed by taking an emergency contraceptive pill within 2 hours, would lead to pregnancy.
My period started on August 8, and I was expecting my next period on September 4, but it hasn't arrived yet.
Is there a chance I could be pregnant? I've also been feeling a dull sensation in my lower abdomen these past few days, but my period still hasn't come.

Din, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/09

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Din,
Hello.
Engaging in sexual intercourse on the third day of your menstrual period is unlikely to coincide with ovulation.
Additionally, taking emergency contraception within two hours should significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy.
You can use a pregnancy test for confirmation.
The feeling of heaviness in your lower abdomen and the absence of menstruation may be due to menstrual irregularities or uterine contractions.
You can consult a physician for medication to help induce menstruation.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng
Director, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2011/09/09

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy after unprotected sex during menstruation, it's essential to understand the menstrual cycle and the factors that influence ovulation. Typically, a menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. Ovulation generally occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the next expected period. However, sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if you have unprotected sex close to your ovulation window, there is a chance of becoming pregnant.

In your case, you mentioned having unprotected sex on the third day of your period, which is generally considered a low-risk time for pregnancy, as ovulation is not expected to occur until later in the cycle. However, cycles can vary, and some women may experience irregular cycles or early ovulation. The fact that you took an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) within two hours of the unprotected intercourse significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, as these pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Regarding your missed period, it's important to note that emergency contraceptive pills can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. Some women may experience a delay in their next period, while others may have an earlier onset or a lighter flow. The symptoms you described, such as a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the lower abdomen, can also be attributed to hormonal fluctuations caused by the ECP or the menstrual cycle itself.

If your period does not arrive within a week of the expected date, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test for confirmation. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can detect pregnancy about a week after a missed period. If the test is positive, or if you continue to experience symptoms of pregnancy, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy from unprotected sex on the third day of your period is low, it is not impossible, especially if you have irregular cycles. Taking the emergency contraceptive pill significantly reduces this risk, but it can also affect your menstrual cycle. If your period is delayed beyond a week, a pregnancy test is recommended to clarify your situation. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance based on your specific circumstances.

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