Could I Be Pregnant? Symptoms and Concerns

Can I get pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
Last month on April 9th, my boyfriend ejaculated (without involving me) and then touched the semen with his hands.
He wiped them dry but forgot to wash his hands afterward.
He then inserted his fingers into my vagina, which was somewhat deep.
Afterward, I was worried about the possibility of pregnancy, so I took emergency contraception.
My menstrual cycle is usually 28 days, but today is May 10th, and it has been 30 days without my period.
I am very scared that I might be pregnant, and I don't have the courage to buy a pregnancy test at the pharmacy.
After taking the emergency contraception, I felt some discomfort in my lower abdomen for two to three days, but that feeling went away after a week.
Recently, I have been very anxious about this situation, which has caused me a lot of stress.
Today, I started to feel some pain in my nipples.
Could these be symptoms of pregnancy? Thank you!

12345, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/10

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Last month on April 9, my boyfriend ejaculated (without involving me) and then touched the semen with his hands.
After wiping it off, he forgot to wash his hands and then inserted his fingers into my vagina, which was somewhat deep.
Afterward, I was worried about the possibility of pregnancy, so I took emergency contraception.
My menstrual cycle is usually 28 days, but today, May 10, it has been 30 days and I still haven't gotten my period.
I'm very scared that I might be pregnant, and I don't have the courage to buy a pregnancy test at the pharmacy.
After taking the emergency contraception, I felt some discomfort in my lower abdomen for two or three days, but that sensation disappeared after a week.
Recently, I've been very anxious about this situation, which has caused me a lot of stress.
Today, I started to feel some pain in my nipples.
Could this be a symptom of pregnancy?
Answer: Since you wiped your hands but forgot to wash them before inserting them into your vagina, and you took emergency contraception, it is highly unlikely that you are pregnant.

Reply Date: 2018/05/10

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of anxiety regarding the possibility of being pregnant, especially after a recent encounter that has left you feeling uncertain. It's important to understand that many women go through similar feelings of worry and concern, particularly when it comes to potential pregnancy. Let's break down your situation and the symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours. However, it can still be effective up to five days after intercourse. After taking the pill, it is common to experience some side effects, including changes in your menstrual cycle, nausea, fatigue, and breast tenderness. These symptoms can sometimes mimic early pregnancy signs, which can further contribute to your anxiety.

You mentioned that your menstrual cycle is typically around 28 days, and you are currently 30 days past your last period. It's not uncommon for menstrual cycles to be irregular, especially after taking emergency contraception, which can cause hormonal fluctuations. Stress and anxiety can also play a significant role in delaying your period. The psychological impact of worrying about a potential pregnancy can lead to physical symptoms, including changes in your menstrual cycle.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as breast tenderness and abdominal discomfort, could be attributed to several factors, including hormonal changes from the emergency contraception, anxiety, or even premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It's important to note that while these symptoms can be associated with early pregnancy, they are not definitive indicators of pregnancy.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by your anxiety, it may be beneficial to take a step back and consider a few options:
1. Take a Pregnancy Test: While it may feel daunting, taking a home pregnancy test can provide clarity. Most tests are reliable and can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period. If you are uncomfortable purchasing a test, consider asking a friend for support or visiting a local clinic where you can obtain one.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you continue to feel anxious or if your period does not arrive soon, it may be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, perform a pregnancy test, and discuss your symptoms in more detail.

3. Manage Anxiety: Consider engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle physical activity. These can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety you are experiencing.

4. Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing your concerns with a trusted friend or family member can help you process your feelings and reduce anxiety. Sometimes, just talking about your worries can provide relief.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is also important to recognize that many factors can influence your menstrual cycle and physical symptoms. Taking proactive steps, such as using a pregnancy test and seeking support, can help you gain clarity and peace of mind. Remember, you are not alone in this experience, and there are resources available to help you navigate your feelings and concerns.

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