Pregnancy Chances: Timing, Testing, and Symptoms Explained

Is it possible to become pregnant?

Hello doctor, I am the person who asked question #148261.
My last menstrual period came four days early, from July 1 to July 7.
I had sexual intercourse on July 12, using a condom, and there was no leakage.
On July 28, I used a pregnancy test from Watson's brand.
I drank some water about half an hour before testing, and I had a strong urge to urinate.
The test showed one line in less than three minutes, indicating no pregnancy.
After waiting a bit longer, the line remained clearly visible.
Is this timing for the pregnancy test accurate? Should I test again? Which brand is more reliable? My expected menstrual period is July 31, but it hasn't arrived yet.
Should I consult a gynecologist? In the two days leading up to my expected period, my discharge has decreased, and I haven't experienced frequent urination.
My body temperature is around 35-36 degrees Celsius, is this considered high? My lower abdomen has become larger; it feels soft when poked, but a bit hard when pressed deeper.
I experienced mild pain on one day in the left lower abdomen (just below the navel) with a pulling sensation.
What could this indicate? Is there a possibility of pregnancy? My areolas have darkened slightly, and I don't have any stabbing pain, though occasionally I feel a slight itch, but not often.
What is my actual chance of being pregnant? Thank you, doctor!

kk, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/31

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My last menstrual period came four days early, from July 1 to July 7.
I had sexual intercourse on July 12, using a condom, and there was no leakage.
On July 28, I used a pregnancy test from Watsons.
I drank some water about half an hour before testing, and when I tested, I had a strong urge to urinate.
The test showed one line in less than three minutes, indicating no pregnancy.
After waiting a bit longer, the line was still clearly visible.
Is this timing for the pregnancy test accurate?
Answer: Not necessarily; it may require another test.

Should I test again on August 4? Which brand is more reliable?
Answer: Any brand is fine.
My expected menstrual period was July 31, but it hasn't arrived yet.
Should I consult a gynecologist?
Answer: Observe for a couple more days.
In the last two days leading up to my expected period, my discharge has decreased, and I haven't experienced frequent urination.
My body temperature is around 35-36 degrees Celsius; is this considered a high temperature?
Answer: It is not considered high.
My lower abdomen has become larger; it feels soft when poked, but it is somewhat firm when pressed deeper.
I have experienced mild pain on the left side of my abdomen (just below the navel) with a pulling sensation on some days.
What could this indicate? Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
Answer: It is unlikely to be pregnancy.
My areolas have darkened slightly, and I do not feel sharp pain, though I occasionally experience mild itching.
What is my actual chance of being pregnant?
Answer: Less than 5%.

Reply Date: 2019/07/31

More Info

Understanding pregnancy chances involves several factors, including timing, testing accuracy, and the interpretation of symptoms. Based on your description, let's break down your situation step by step.

Timing and Testing Accuracy
You mentioned that your last menstrual period (LMP) was from July 1 to July 7, and you had unprotected intercourse on July 12. The timing of ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period, which would place it around July 15-16 for a typical 28-day cycle. Since sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, there is a possibility of conception occurring from intercourse on July 12.

You performed a home pregnancy test on July 28, which is about 12 days after your potential ovulation date. Generally, home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Since your expected period was July 31, testing on July 28 could yield a reliable result, but it is still advisable to wait until after the missed period for the most accurate results.

Home Pregnancy Test Results
The test you used showed one line, indicating a negative result. However, it’s important to consider a few factors:
1. Dilution of Urine: Drinking a lot of water before the test can dilute your urine, potentially leading to a false negative. It’s best to take the test with first-morning urine, which is more concentrated.

2. Test Sensitivity: Different brands of pregnancy tests have varying sensitivities. Some tests can detect lower levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) than others. If you are concerned about the accuracy of the test, you might consider using a different brand or testing again a few days later.

Symptoms and Their Interpretation
You noted several symptoms: a delayed period, changes in discharge, slight abdominal enlargement, and mild discomfort on the left side of your abdomen. These symptoms can be indicative of early pregnancy, but they can also be related to other factors, such as hormonal changes or premenstrual symptoms.

1. Delayed Period: A missed period is often one of the first signs of pregnancy, but it can also be caused by stress, hormonal imbalances, or changes in weight.

2. Abdominal Changes: Slight abdominal enlargement and tenderness can occur in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the body preparing for a potential pregnancy. However, these symptoms can also be related to other conditions, such as ovulation or premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

3. Breast Changes: Darkening of the areolas and mild itching can be signs of hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, but they can also occur due to other factors.

Next Steps
Given that your expected period has not arrived and you are experiencing symptoms that could indicate pregnancy, it would be prudent to:
- Retest: Consider taking another pregnancy test in a few days, preferably with first-morning urine for better accuracy.

- Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your period does not arrive soon, or if you continue to experience symptoms, it would be wise to consult a gynecologist. They can perform a blood test to check for pregnancy and provide further evaluation based on your symptoms.

Conclusion
In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given your timeline and symptoms, the negative home pregnancy test suggests that you may not be pregnant. However, the best course of action is to retest and consult with a healthcare provider for a definitive answer and to discuss your symptoms. Remember, every individual’s body reacts differently, and only a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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