Pregnancy Tests and Ovulation After Birth Control Use

Pregnancy tests taken 7 days, 12 days, and 13 days after sexual intercourse all returned negative results?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my situation.
I have been taking oral contraceptives until just before my period last month (I took them continuously for two months).

1.
Does this mean that I will start ovulating normally this month? My cycle is 26 days, and my period was from the 30th to the 4th of last month.
I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend until the 11th, and I took pregnancy tests on the 7th, 12th, and 13th days, all of which were negative.

2.
Should I stop testing, or should I continue testing?
3.
After having intercourse, I experienced lower abdominal pain and my nipples have been sore.
I usually feel discomfort before my period arrives.
Could this be premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Xiao Qiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/12/26

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Is it possible that I have started normal ovulation this month since I stopped taking the emergency contraceptive pill before my period last month (after taking it continuously for two months)? Answer: Not necessarily.
My cycle is 26 days, and my period started on the 30th and ended on the 4th of last month.
During that time, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend until the 11th, and I tested negative on days 7, 12, and 13 after that.
2.
Should I continue testing or can I stop? Answer: Test again on day 21.
3.
I experienced lower abdominal pain a week after having intercourse, and my nipples have been sore.
I usually have a feeling of discomfort before my period.
Is this premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? Answer: It is likely.

Reply Date: 2019/12/26

More Info

When considering the impact of birth control on ovulation and pregnancy tests, it’s essential to understand how hormonal contraceptives work and how they affect your menstrual cycle.
1. Return to Ovulation After Stopping Birth Control: After discontinuing birth control pills, most women will begin to ovulate again relatively quickly, often within a few weeks. However, the exact timing can vary based on individual hormonal levels and the type of birth control used. Since you mentioned that you were on the pill for two months and stopped just before your last menstrual period, it is likely that your body is adjusting and may have resumed normal ovulation. Given your cycle length of 26 days, if you had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window (which typically occurs around 12-16 days before your next expected period), there is a possibility of conception.

2. Pregnancy Testing: You mentioned that you took pregnancy tests on the 7th, 12th, and 13th days after intercourse, and they were negative. If you are testing too early, it may not yield accurate results. Most home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine, which typically becomes detectable about a week after a missed period. If your period is due soon, it may be best to wait until after your expected period to test again for more reliable results. If your period is late, you should definitely test again.

3. Symptoms of Early Pregnancy vs. PMS: The symptoms you describe, such as lower abdominal pain and breast tenderness, can be indicative of both early pregnancy and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Many women experience similar symptoms in the luteal phase of their cycle, which is the time between ovulation and the start of menstruation. If you are experiencing these symptoms before your expected period, it could be related to hormonal changes associated with PMS. However, if you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take another pregnancy test after your missed period or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, after stopping birth control, it is common for ovulation to resume quickly, but individual experiences may vary. If you suspect pregnancy, waiting until after your expected period for testing will provide the most accurate results. If you continue to have symptoms or have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended for personalized advice and support.

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