Sudden Relief from PMS Symptoms: Is Pregnancy Possible?

Sudden relief of premenstrual symptoms?

I would like to ask about my girlfriend's menstrual cycle, which is approximately 30 days.
Her last period started on June 1st, and we had sexual intercourse on June 12th.
We did not use a condom, but I withdrew before ejaculation.
After that, we did not engage in any further sexual activity.
However, June 12th falls within her fertile window, so I am a bit concerned about the possibility of pregnancy.

Starting on June 22nd, my girlfriend began experiencing symptoms such as breast tenderness, lower back pain, and abdominal discomfort.
By around June 25th, these symptoms intensified, and she felt very fatigued, with significant lower back pain and pronounced breast tenderness.
However, by June 28th, her symptoms suddenly lessened; she was not as fatigued, and her back pain had decreased.
Could you please explain what might be causing these symptoms? Is it possible that she is pregnant? Thank you.

Hai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/30

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if the chances of pregnancy are low, it's best to wait and take preventive measures beforehand.
One should not rely on the safe period.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/06/30

More Info

When considering the possibility of pregnancy, especially in the context of your girlfriend's menstrual cycle and the symptoms she is experiencing, it's important to analyze several factors. Your girlfriend's cycle is approximately 30 days, with her last period starting on June 1. You mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on June 12, which falls within her fertile window, as ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the next expected period. This means that there is a possibility of pregnancy, especially since you were inside her body, even if you did not ejaculate.

The symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing—breast tenderness, lower back pain, and abdominal discomfort—are common premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms, but they can also be early signs of pregnancy. The fact that these symptoms intensified around June 22 and then suddenly decreased around June 28 raises some questions. Typically, PMS symptoms can fluctuate in intensity, and some women may experience a sudden relief from these symptoms as their bodies adjust to hormonal changes. This relief can occur if menstruation is imminent or if the body is responding to changes in hormone levels that might indicate pregnancy.

However, the sudden decrease in symptoms does not definitively indicate pregnancy. In fact, many women experience variations in their PMS symptoms from cycle to cycle. Stress, changes in lifestyle, diet, and even physical activity can all influence the severity of PMS symptoms. Additionally, if your girlfriend's body is adjusting to the hormonal fluctuations associated with her menstrual cycle, it could explain the sudden relief from symptoms.

To determine whether your girlfriend is pregnant, the most reliable method is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to take the test after a missed period, as this allows enough time for hCG levels to rise if pregnancy has occurred.

If your girlfriend's period does not arrive on time, and she continues to experience symptoms that could be related to pregnancy, it would be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider. A healthcare professional can provide a more thorough evaluation, including a blood test for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home tests and can detect pregnancy earlier.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the timing of your sexual activity and the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing, the sudden relief from those symptoms does not confirm pregnancy. It is essential to wait for her next period or take a pregnancy test for a definitive answer. If there are any concerns or if symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step.

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