Should I Be Worried About Pregnancy After Intimacy? Expert Answers - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is there still a need for concern?


Hello Doctor, I expect to ovulate on November 25th.
During that time, my boyfriend and I engaged in genital rubbing, but there was no penetration and he did not ejaculate.
He only briefly attempted to penetrate with his penis, but I quickly pushed him away.
I am now worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
My menstrual cycle is irregular, and my period started on the morning of December 6th, but it was only heavy on the first day, with lighter flow in the following days, lasting about four and a half days in total.
I took pregnancy tests on December 6th and December 9th, both showing one line.
However, I still felt anxious and visited a gynecologist on December 11th.
The doctor performed an ultrasound and said my uterus looked healthy and that it appeared I had my period.
The doctor also mentioned that emotional stress and lifestyle factors could have affected this menstrual cycle.
The urine test also indicated that I was not pregnant.
Given this, I tested on days 11, 14, and 16 after the encounter, and all tests were negative.

1.
Does this mean I can truly relax about the possibility of pregnancy?
2.
However, my breasts still feel swollen after that day; could it be too early to detect pregnancy?
3.
Doctor, am I just being too anxious? Thank you for your response.
I hope you can address all my concerns.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/13

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Regarding your concerns, the response is as follows: it seems you may be overly worried.
Since the obstetrician-gynecologist has confirmed your situation, you shouldn't be too concerned.
Please note that excessive stress can also lead to menstrual irregularities.
Thank you for your question, and I wish you health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2020/12/13

More Info


It's understandable to feel anxious after an intimate encounter, especially when there are uncertainties regarding pregnancy. Based on your description, it seems that you have taken several steps to confirm your non-pregnant status, including menstrual tracking, home pregnancy tests, and a visit to a gynecologist. Here’s a detailed response to your concerns:
1. Reassurance About Pregnancy: Given that you had your period on December 6, which lasted for about four and a half days, and that you have taken multiple home pregnancy tests that all returned negative results, it is highly likely that you are not pregnant. Home pregnancy tests are generally very reliable when taken after a missed period. Since you tested on December 9 and again later, and all tests were negative, you can feel reassured. The ultrasound performed by your gynecologist also indicated that your uterus appeared healthy and consistent with having had a menstrual cycle, further supporting the conclusion that you are not pregnant.

2. Breast Tenderness: It’s common for women to experience breast tenderness or swelling due to hormonal fluctuations throughout their menstrual cycle. If your breasts have not returned to their normal state after your period, it could be due to lingering hormonal effects or stress. Stress can significantly impact your menstrual cycle and related symptoms, leading to variations in how your body feels. If you are still concerned about breast tenderness or any other symptoms, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider during your next visit.

3. Anxiety and Stress: It sounds like your anxiety may be contributing to your physical symptoms and overall stress levels. It’s not uncommon for emotional states to affect physical health, including menstrual cycles. If you feel that your anxiety is overwhelming or affecting your daily life, consider speaking to a mental health professional or a counselor. They can provide strategies to help manage anxiety and stress.

4. Next Steps: If you continue to experience unusual symptoms or if your menstrual cycle remains irregular, it may be beneficial to keep a detailed record of your cycles, symptoms, and any other relevant factors (like stress levels or lifestyle changes). This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider in assessing your situation.
In summary, based on the information you provided, it seems that you can relax regarding the possibility of pregnancy. However, if you have ongoing concerns or if your symptoms persist, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and peace of mind. Remember, it's always better to communicate your concerns with a professional who can provide personalized advice based on your health history.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.


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