Pregnancy Tests: What a Single Line Means After 15 Days - Obstetrics and Gynecology

More Info

---

When you take a pregnancy test and see only one line, it typically indicates a negative result, meaning that you are not pregnant. In your case, testing approximately 15 days after sexual intercourse is a reasonable timeframe for detecting pregnancy, as it generally takes about 10 to 14 days after conception for the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) to be detectable in urine.
If you tested on March 6, and this was 15 days post-intercourse, it is likely that your body has not produced enough hCG to be detected by the test, assuming conception occurred. Most home pregnancy tests are designed to be sensitive enough to detect hCG levels as low as 20-25 mIU/mL, but if the hormone levels are lower than this threshold, the test may return a negative result even if you are pregnant.

It's important to note that various factors can influence the accuracy of a pregnancy test. These include the sensitivity of the test itself, the timing of the test in relation to ovulation and implantation, and the concentration of urine at the time of testing. For the most accurate results, it is often recommended to use the first morning urine, as it typically contains the highest concentration of hCG.

If you are still uncertain about your pregnancy status, it may be beneficial to wait a few days and retest. If you continue to receive negative results but still suspect you might be pregnant, or if your menstrual cycle is irregular, consider consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may suggest a blood test, which can detect lower levels of hCG than urine tests and provide a more definitive answer.

Additionally, if you are trying to conceive and have not been successful, it's important to remember that many couples may take several months to achieve pregnancy. The average chance of conception for a healthy couple in any given month is about 15-25%. If you have been trying for over a year without success (or six months if you are over 35), it may be advisable to seek guidance from a fertility specialist.

In summary, a single line on a pregnancy test taken 15 days after intercourse generally indicates that you are not pregnant. However, if you have concerns or if your menstrual cycle does not follow its usual pattern, it is wise to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.