Pregnancy Chances: When to Test and Symptoms Explained

Probability of Pregnancy

Hello Doctor, I had sexual intercourse on February 28th and experienced ejaculation inside.
I took pregnancy tests on March 3rd, March 6th, and March 13th, but all results showed one line.
I would like to ask: 1.
How long after conception can a pregnancy test typically detect pregnancy? 2.
Given that all three pregnancy tests indicated no pregnancy, what is the likelihood of being pregnant this time? 3.
About a week after intercourse, I began experiencing uterine pain (with the most pain in the ovaries), breast tenderness, unexplained fatigue and drowsiness, and increased hunger (I had lunch at noon, which was a bento and a cup of red tea latte, and I felt hungry again around 2 or 3 PM).
However, when I eat, I feel nauseous, and certain smells make me feel sick and want to vomit.
I also feel a bit warm.
I shared these symptoms with people around me, and they all believe I might be pregnant.
I am very eager to conceive, but I can assure you that these symptoms are not psychological but rather genuine physiological responses.
(My last menstrual period was from February 21 to February 24.) Please, Doctor, I sincerely hope you can provide me with answers, as I am truly eager to become pregnant!

Zhirou, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/20

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, a pregnancy test should be taken at least 12 days after conception for accurate results.
The chances of pregnancy are low, so it's best to use contraception beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late, consider consulting a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/20

More Info

When it comes to understanding pregnancy chances and the timing of pregnancy tests, there are several important factors to consider. Based on your situation, let’s address your questions one by one.

1. How long after conception can pregnancy be detected?
Pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in your urine, which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. Typically, it takes about 6 to 12 days after conception for hCG levels to rise enough to be detectable by a home pregnancy test. Therefore, if you had unprotected intercourse on February 28, the earliest you might expect a positive result would be around March 6 to March 12, depending on your individual cycle and the timing of ovulation. Testing too early can lead to false negatives, as hCG levels may not be high enough to detect.

2. What are the chances of pregnancy given the negative test results?
Since you tested on March 3, March 6, and March 13 and received negative results, it is less likely that you are pregnant, especially if you tested after the expected time for a positive result. However, if your menstrual cycle is irregular or if you ovulated later than usual, there is still a small chance that you could be pregnant. If your period does not arrive as expected, it would be advisable to wait a few days and test again or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect lower levels of hCG than urine tests.

3. Interpreting physical symptoms and their relation to pregnancy.
The symptoms you describe—abdominal pain, breast tenderness, fatigue, increased appetite, nausea, and sensitivity to certain smells—can indeed be associated with early pregnancy. However, they can also be attributed to other factors, such as hormonal changes, stress, or even premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It’s important to note that while many women experience these symptoms in early pregnancy, they are not definitive indicators of pregnancy on their own.
Given that your last menstrual period was from February 21 to February 24, if your cycle is typically around 28 days, you would expect your next period around March 21. If you do not get your period by then, it would be a good idea to take another pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Additional Considerations:
- Stress and Anxiety: It’s also worth mentioning that psychological factors can influence physical symptoms. Anxiety about wanting to conceive can manifest as physical symptoms, which may complicate your interpretation of what you are experiencing. It’s essential to maintain a balanced perspective and not let the desire for pregnancy lead to undue stress.

- Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice, perform necessary tests, and help you understand your reproductive health better.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may suggest a possibility of pregnancy, the negative test results indicate that it is less likely. If your period is late, retesting or seeking medical advice would be the next best steps. Remember, every individual’s body is different, and understanding your cycle and symptoms can take time.

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