How Do I Get Pregnant if My Periods Are Irregular?

Dear Sexperts,

My partner and I have been trying for a baby for 3 months. My periods are so irregular that it is impossible to determine anything by my cycle. My partner and I had sexual intercourse but I came on my period the next day. Is there any chance I could be pregnant?

Answer:

It is very unlikely that you are pregnant if you have sexual intercourse and had your period the following day. When a woman has her period, it means that one of her eggs has been discarded, so there is little chance that one of your eggs was fertilized.

Because you are only 17 years old, it is not unusual that you are having such irregular periods. Some girls in your situation start taking female contraceptives such as the birth control pill or Nuva ring which helps regulate their irregular periods, however in your case this is not a solution because you want to get pregnant. It would be wise to go to your doctor and find out if there is a explanation for your irregular periods.

Having a baby at age 17 is a very serious decision to make. It is a life-time commitment that of course can be wonderful and exciting, but it can also be very challenging and demanding. Before you commit to having a child you need to be 100% ready both physically and mentally. It might be wise to discuss having a child at great length with your partner and family.

There are some physical complications that you should take into consideration before you decide to have a baby. Teenage girls who become pregnant have a higher risk of physical complications than women who become pregnant in their 20