You have missed your period? Wondering if you’re pregnant or want to know when you ovulate? Here’s a list of our frequently asked questions – read it and learn more about your menstrual cycle, ovulation, pregnancy, abortion etc.
6) Abortion
I had an abortion 5 weeks ago and still haven’t gotten my normal period. Is this normal? When should I expect my period to come?
When the period will return after an abortion varies from woman to woman depending on how far along the pregnancy had proceeded before it was aborted. Normally, the period returns four to 12 weeks after an abortion and even if there are no periods after this time, it could be because of stress, health issues like PCOS, or your body might be taking some more time to heal.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });I had a medical abortion and got my periods after 4 weeks. It has not stopped even after 6 days. Is it normal or do I need to consult the doctor?
It’s normal to have a longer first period after your abortion. They may be lighter or heavier than your usual period. If they are heavy and you need to change pads more than four times a day, you should consult the doctor.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });I had an abortion last week and I still feel pregnant. I feel all the signs. Does that mean the abortion was not successful?
After an abortion, it is normal to still feel pregnant for the next 3-4 weeks, as the body is trying to adjust to the new situation, which takes some time. To make sure, you can take a urine pregnancy test after 6 weeks of the abortion.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });Are there any kinds of restrictions after an abortion?
When can I get pregnant after a miscarriage or abortion?
It is very important that you give yourself time to heal both emotionally and physically before you try to conceive again. Physical recovery after a miscarriage is quick and takes only a few days. After about a month, your body will be working normally and your menstrual cycles will begin once again. It is possible to become pregnant during your first menstrual cycle after your miscarriage or abortion.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });I recently had an abortion but I did a pregnancy test that is still showing that I’m pregnant. What is happening to me?
I had an abortion and I’m having cramps, feeling nauseous and my period has not returned. Should I be concerned?
The effects of an abortion include bleeding, cramps or a vaginal discharge. If these symptoms are excessive and you have a high fever then you must see a doctor. Don’t worry about your delayed period – in most instances, a menstrual cycle is expected within 4 to 8 weeks after an abortion.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });3) Gettting Pregnant
I had unprotected sex and got my period shortly after. Is there still any chance that I’m pregnant?
If you got your regular period in accordance to your period calculator this would indicate that you’re not pregnant. If you noticed bleeding some time after unprotected sex and not on the days when your regular period should appear then this could be implantation bleeding. In that case it could be that you’re pregnant and we’d recommend that you take a pregnancy test.
You can read this post to learn more about how to recognize the difference between a period and implantation bleeding.
What are the other signs to know I am pregnant, other than taking pregnancy test?
Every woman might have different pregnancy signs. The most common ones are sore breasts, increased need to go to the washroom, mood swings, tiredness etc. However, all these may also be caused by other reasons, too. The only accurate way to know whether you are pregnant is to take a pregnancy test. Be sure to take it after 10 days of missing your expected period date for more accuracy.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });What is the best time to have sex if I’m trying to get pregnant?
The most fertile days in the cycle will be at least 3 days before, during and some days after ovulation. This will be the best time for you to try and conceive. Sperm will survive for 3 to 5 days while the egg will last for 12 to 24 hours. You are fertile for about 5 to 7 days. In case you are not sure about your ovulation, you can also use an ovulation kit to make sure.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });Is it possible to get pregnant if I have sex just before ovulation?
Yes. The risk of getting pregnant is high because your partner’s sperm can live inside your body for at least 72 hours. You can become pregnant just before ovulation as long as one sperm is alive; in essence the sperm could be there waiting for an egg to be released during the ovulation process.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });Can I get pregnant if my partner withdraws before he ejaculates?
Yes, it is still possible for pregnancy to occur because pre-ejaculate (pre-cum or sperm) can be released from your partner before your partner withdraws. This semen can be potent enough to result in a pregnancy.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });How do I know if I’m pregnant?
The biggest sign of pregnancy after unprotected sex is a missed period. However, this missed or late period is not a sure sign as there are many other things like stress, sickness and fatigue that can delay a period besides pregnancy. The best way for you to know if you are pregnant is to do a pregnancy test. These are easy to get nowadays because they are available at drugstores or health centers. It is important to note that the home pregnancy tests are ninety-nine percent accurate if taken after you miss a period.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });2) Delayed Period
I am late. Am I pregnant?
A late period can be caused by many reasons and pregnancy is only one of them. If you think pregnancy can be the reason in your case, wait until 10 days after the date of your expected period date to take a pregnancy test. This waiting is to ensure the accuracy of the pregnancy test kit.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });My period is very late. If I’m not pregnant so what could it be?
If you missed a period and you are not pregnant, you might want to know why this happened. Some of the causes of a missed menstrual cycle include: stress, change in your regular schedule, travel, illness and the use of certain medications. It would be best to consult your doctor for help in identifying which factor is causing the delay.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });1) Menstrual Cycle
How do I calculate the length of my menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle starts on day one of the bleeding to day one of the next. On average, the cycle lasts for 28 days, but it’s normal to have it longer or shorter. So if one period started on July 10 and the next one started on August 5, then you would have a 26 days cycle. If your periods are regular, then the two subsequent ones would come on August 31 and September 26. Read this article for more information.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });How can I track my menstrual cycle?
It is important for you to keep a record of your menstrual cycle on a calendar or on a smart phone; there are many ovulation apps available. Track your start date every month for several months – this will help you to determine the constancy of your periods. It is also important to note: the end date, how light or heavy it is and if you have abnormal bleeding or pain.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });How do I determine my fertile days?
Typically, the menstrual cycle will last for 28 days, which is calculated from day one of a menstrual period to day one of the next cycle. Ovulation typically occurs 14 days before the start of your menstrual period. If your cycle lasts for 28 days, you can ovulate on the 14th day like the average female. However, you will start ovulating around the 11th day if you have periods 25 days apart. Alternatively, you will not ovulate until the 20th day if your cycles are longer, like for 34 days. If periods are irregular it would be more challenging to determine the fertile days.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });4) Ovulation
Can I ovulate right after my period?
What is the difference between ovulation bleeding versus implantation bleeding?
With a regular 28 to 30 days cycle, ovulation typically occurs on the 13th -16th day. Implantation usually happens within the next 10 days after ovulation. Read this article for more information.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });How can I differentiate ovulation bleeding from a period?
The quantity of blood discharged through the vagina is what mainly differentiates the two. With a menstrual period, there is a heavy flow of blood that can last for an average of three to five days. Ovulation, on the other hand usually brings spotting or a little bit of blood. This blood is either dark brownish red color or pink and there is very little of it. It may be mixed with cervical mucus and may be accompanied by mild pain in the stomach or some cramping that resembles menstrual cramping.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });What are the signs of ovulation?
The ovulation signs include changes in body temperature, cervical mucus and hormone levels. Pain in the ovaries may also be experienced. Read this post to learn about some other common ovulation symptoms.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });Can I ovulate and get pregnant during a period?
Generally speaking, you can’t get pregnant during your period. But there are very little odds of getting pregnant if the menstrual phase of your cycle is short and sperm still hangs around to fertilize an egg that will be released in the next cycle. Other than that, the egg is expelled with the endometrial shedding when you’re menstruating. But yes, you can ovulate during your period, if your period is shorter, explained in the question above.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });What are some common ovulation facts?
Ovulation facts in a nutshell:
- Typically, only one egg is released during ovulation.
- An egg can live up to 24 hours after ovulation.
- Sperm can live up to 72 hours.
- Stress, sickness, or other outside influences can affect ovulation.
- It usually takes from a week to 12 days for a fertilized egg to become implanted.
- It is possible to experience ovulation even without experiencing a period.
- While it is common not to be aware that you are ovulating, some women experience heaviness or some pain during ovulation.
- The chance of pregnancy increases if intercourse occurs sometime between three days before to three days after ovulation.
During my ovulation time, how many days am I really fertile?
During your window of ovulation, your most fertile time is considered to be about 5-7 days long. An egg is only available to be fertilized for about 12 – 24 hours. Since sperm can live in the body for 3 – 5 days after sex, and the egg is available for one day, you must identify those 5 to 7 days and have sex just before, during and even a few days after these days if you want to get pregnant.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });5) Pregnancy Tests
When is the best time to take a pregnancy test?
You can get the most accurate result if you wait at least one week after missing your period. In addition, the result might be even more accurate if the test is done first in the morning as the urine is far more concentrated at this time. The urine-based home pregnancy tests offer great accuracy. This accuracy will depend on several factors such as how early the test is taken, if the instructions were followed closely, when ovulation occurred in the cycle as well as how early implantation takes place, and the sensitivity of the test.
It is always best to take a pregnancy test after a late period to avoid false positive or false negative results. If you have irregular cycles or you are not charting your cycles, it might best to take the test after passing the longest menstrual cycle. For example, it would be best to take the test 37 days or later if your cycles are in the range of 30 to 36 days.
You can buy home pregnancy tests in every pharmacy or online (Amazon link).
If my pregnancy test shows a negative result, does this mean I’m not pregnant?
A negative result can mean that you are not pregnant or that you took the test too early. Pregnancy tests vary in their sensitivity (how soon they can detect the hormone hCG), and you may not have given your body enough time to produce enough of the hCG hormone to show up on the test.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });When taking a test it is best to follow the instructions of the manufacturer and wait until you have missed a period before taking the test. Some women show up accurately on a test the day they miss a period, while others may not show up positive until 3-4 weeks after a missed period. If the result is negative, wait a week and test again if a normal period has not started.
Hi. I had my menses on the 4th of January for 5 days and then on the 10th of Feb. For 8 days I had unprotected sex twice every week and now I haven’t got my March periods. I did a pregnancy test but it’s negative. When can I expect my March periods? And when are my fertile days? Please help.
I saw my period on 13th Feb. had unprotected sex though we use withdrawal method on 6th March. I was supposed to see my period today being 12th of March but until now no sign of it. What is the cause?
I had a surgical abortion on feb 5, went for a check up after 20 days and the doctor said I should get my period. I did had encounter after the check up, and I’m not getting my period. I don’t seem to experience any signs like breast tenderness, morning sickness… I don’t know if I should do the test now, or go straight to the docktor’s?
Hi Ivana, it’s not abnormal to miss your period for 4-12 weeks after surgical abortion. However, this varies from woman to woman and depends on how far along the pregnancy had proceeded before it was terminated. Did your doctor give you a date?
I had a medical abortion at 4 weeks pregnancy on 31 of January. Up until now (Mar 8) I’ve not seen my period. Am I ok at all?
I had my last period feb 3 2O16 made love feb 14, 16 , and my period came march. 6 am i pregnant
I had an abortion on 16th of Feb and I started bleeding from 18 Feb it was bleeding for 15 days. when will I get my menstrual cycle again?
Hi. You should get your normal period 4-8 weeks after an abortion. Best of luck.
Hello,
I had unprocted sex on the 8th of February and also that following week around the 15. But I got my period on the 18th till the 21st, it was irregular, can I still get pregnant?
Hello Jessica. The chance of pregnancy is always there when having unprotected sex. You stated that you did have a period after the last encounter. If you are still concerned you should take a pregnancy test.
Hi,
I had a missed abortion (naturally) on 24th Jan 2016 with 6 week pregnancy. Got no periods till now on 2nd march 2016. Also some urine infection was found on 2 week back urine report.
Is no period till now normal? Should i talk to my doctor or wait more.
Hello Yamini,
Sorry to hear about that. Both, a gap of 5-6 weeks and a urine infection, is not abnormal after a missed abortion. However, it is always best to take professional help. So, I would suggest that you talk with your doctor about it.
Hi Emily,
Thanks for the reply, My period started on 5th March, and it’s normal.
hi i had a surgical abortion on the 14 dec waited for my period in jan to no avail. it came on feb 22 it’s been 9 days and I am menstrating heavy and painful. what do i do it’s been flowing for too long but my normal before the abortion was 3-4days. please help me out
Hi Shalin, please contact your doctor immediately. It’s not abnormal to bleed heavy after a surgical abortion, but it may be a serious problem.
Hi i had my period on the 1st of February and i had unprotected sex on the 18th of February, now i had early period on 27th of February. I’m worried can i be pregnant?
Hi. as you got your period you should not be pregnant. good luck.
I got my period on 20th which should actually be 2nd (I didn’t do any pregnancy tests in the middle BTW, because we are not expecting though and had papaya,Sesame seeds to get period) ,the bleeding is more than normal with mild cramps and it’s been 10 days and still not a single sign of stopping ( am still changing 2 pads a day). Now am worried if that could be an abortion.
Do I need to see a doctor.
Hi Rebecca, yes, you should see a doctor. Bleeding for 10 days is definitely not normal and might be a serious issue too.
Hi, I had my period on 7th to 10th feb..on 24th I had unprotected sex. What are the chances of me geting pregnant please help!
If you have unprotected sex, you have a chance of getting pregnant. Especially because you are close to your ovulation date.
Hi, I started my period in the 11th of feb I usually go for 4 days but it was so light that on the 5th to the 7th I was only spotting. I then had unprotected sex on the 22nd. what are the odds of me getting pregnant?
Probably not too likely, but everyone is different. I would suggest taking a pregnancy test one week after (if you miss your period).
Hi i got my period on the 23rd of january. And i expect to see it again some time this month, i had unprotected sex with my boyfriend on the 19th of February…… Is their a possibility i could get pregnant?
well, every time you have unprotected sex there is a possibility of getting pregnant
My cycle has changed from 28 days to 25 is there anything wrong with me.and I’ve been trying to fall pregnant but nothing seem to work for me.I’m little bit worried
Nope! Change of cycle is perfectly normal. If you are still concerned, I would seek professional guidance.
If it was unprotected, you could be; but it is too soon to tell. Take a pregnancy test one week after your missed period if it doesn’t show up.