Pregnancy: When to Test and What to Expect

Could you please provide more context or specify your question regarding pregnancy?

Hello, doctor.
I am planning to get pregnant.
The last time I had intercourse was on the morning of May 14, and I tested with two pregnancy test strips, both showing negative results.
However, my period has not arrived this month.
The first day of my period in April was April 16, I did not have a period in March, the first day of my period in February was February 21, the first day in January was January 20, and the first day in December was December 18.
Thank you.

Mi Lan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/03

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last sexual intercourse was on May 14, and the pregnancy test was conducted on June 3, which is more than 18 days later.
It should be possible to detect pregnancy by then.
Both test strips showed negative results, which indicates that there is likely no pregnancy.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng.

Reply Date: 2016/06/03

More Info

Understanding pregnancy can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to knowing when to test for pregnancy and what to expect during this time. Based on your question, it seems you are trying to determine if you are pregnant after having unprotected intercourse on May 14, and you have not yet received your expected menstrual period.
Firstly, it is important to understand the menstrual cycle and how it relates to pregnancy testing. The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person. Ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before your next expected period. If you had unprotected intercourse on May 14, and your cycle is regular, you would likely expect your period around June 16. If your period has not arrived by that date, it may be time to take a pregnancy test.

Home 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 lining of the uterus. Most tests are designed to be accurate about a week after a missed period. If you tested before your expected period, it is possible that the test may not have detected hCG yet, leading to a negative result even if you are pregnant.

Given that you mentioned testing on May 14 and receiving negative results, it is advisable to wait until after your expected period to test again for more accurate results. If your period does not arrive by then, retesting with a home pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider would be the next steps.
In terms of what to expect during early pregnancy, many women experience a variety of symptoms, including missed periods, nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, and frequent urination. However, these symptoms can also be associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), making it challenging to distinguish between the two without a test.

If you do find out that you are pregnant, it is important to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for prenatal care. Early prenatal care is crucial for monitoring the health of both you and your developing baby. During your first visit, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination, order blood tests, and possibly schedule an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and check for any potential issues.

Additionally, if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or any irregularities, it is important to discuss these with your healthcare provider. Factors such as stress, weight changes, and underlying health conditions can all affect your menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health.

In summary, if your period does not arrive by the expected date, consider retesting with a home pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider. Early detection and care are key to a healthy pregnancy, and being proactive about your health can help ensure the best outcomes for you and your future baby.

Similar Q&A

When to Take a Pregnancy Test: Timing and Ultrasound Guidance

Hello, doctor~~~ My menstrual period started on December 29th. I had intercourse on January 11th and January 13th. My menstrual cycle is about 28 to 30 days. This week, I started experiencing breast tenderness, a feeling of heaviness in my lower abdomen, and yesterday I had some ...

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It is recommended to take a pregnancy test when your expected menstrual period is missed. Although it is possible to test positive for pregnancy before the period is due, a negative result does not necessarily mean you are not pregnant. If a urine test indicates pregnancy, you sh...

When to Use a Pregnancy Test: Understanding Delayed Menstruation

When should you buy a pregnancy test?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Generally, if pregnancy occurs, it should be detectable about ten to fifteen days after intercourse. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

When to Take a Pregnancy Test: Understanding Timing and Symptoms

I have a question... My girlfriend's menstrual cycle has been very regular lately, either 25 or 26 days. Last month, it started on July 25, so we expect it to start around August 19 or 20. We had a little incident on August 4 (15 days before her expected period) where my han...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: 1. Implantation bleeding is minimal and lasts only one or two days, while menstrual bleeding is heavier and lasts longer. 2. You can use a pregnancy test after three days of missed menstruation. Dr. Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Understanding Pregnancy Testing After Menstruation: Key Insights

If a woman has had sexual intercourse and her next menstrual period arrives, is there still a need to take a pregnancy test? Besides testing for pregnancy, what other methods can be used to determine if one is pregnant?

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The arrival of the next menstrual period typically indicates that pregnancy has not occurred. However, there are cases where abnormal bleeding may be mistaken for menstruation. This abnormal bleeding usually occurs later than the expected menstrual date and is often lighter in vo...