Pregnancy Risks After Intercourse Before Menstruation - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Understanding the risks of pregnancy after intercourse, particularly in relation to the timing of your menstrual cycle, is crucial for anyone trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy. Based on your description, you had your last menstrual period on August 20, which lasted about seven days. Your cycle length is approximately 35 to 36 days, which means you would typically ovulate around 21 days after the start of your last period, placing your ovulation window around September 24 to 25.
The app you mentioned indicates a "danger period" from September 5 to September 11, which is likely based on the average ovulation cycle. However, since your cycle is longer than the average 28 days, your ovulation may not align perfectly with the app's predictions. Intercourse on September 21, which is just a few days before your expected ovulation, could potentially lead to pregnancy, especially if sperm were present in the reproductive tract during ovulation.

Regarding the brown discharge you experienced before intercourse, this could be a sign of various things, including the onset of your menstrual cycle, ovulation spotting, or even hormonal fluctuations. It's not uncommon for women to experience changes in their discharge due to stress, illness, or hormonal shifts, which could also explain the delay in your period.
You mentioned experiencing a fever and taking cold medication. While most over-the-counter medications for colds are generally considered safe, some can affect your menstrual cycle. For instance, medications containing certain antihistamines or decongestants can sometimes lead to changes in menstrual regularity. However, they are unlikely to cause a significant delay in your cycle unless they were taken in high doses or over an extended period.

As for the possibility of pregnancy, the fact that you used a condom and checked for any leaks is a good precaution. Condoms are highly effective when used correctly, but no method is 100% foolproof. Given that you are now four days late for your period, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG, which is produced during pregnancy, and can provide accurate results if taken after a missed period.

If the test is negative and your period does not start soon, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider to explore other potential reasons for the delay, such as stress, illness, or hormonal imbalances. They can provide further insights and help you understand your cycle better.

In summary, while the timing of your intercourse suggests a lower risk of pregnancy, it is still possible, especially given the proximity to your ovulation window. Monitoring your symptoms and taking a pregnancy test will provide clarity. If you have ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle or reproductive health, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is always a good step.