When should I take a pregnancy test?
Hello, doctor.
My girlfriend got her period on March 3rd, took emergency contraception on March 20th, and had her period again on March 29th.
However, today is April 4th, and her period has not returned.
Is this normal? When should we take a pregnancy test after having intercourse on March 20th for the most accurate results?
Kk, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/04
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it should be normal.
Generally, you can take a pregnancy test 12 days after sexual intercourse.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2022/04/04
More Info
When it comes to taking a pregnancy test after unprotected intercourse, timing is crucial for obtaining an accurate result. Generally, it is recommended to wait until at least the first day of your missed period to take a home pregnancy test. This is because pregnancy tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This process typically takes about six to twelve days after conception, and hCG levels may not be high enough to detect until after a missed period.
In your case, your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on March 3, and she had unprotected intercourse on March 20. If she took emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") on March 20, it can alter her menstrual cycle and potentially delay her next period. The emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, but it can still cause some irregularities in the menstrual cycle, including changes in the timing and flow of her next period.
Since her next period was expected around April 3, and she has not had it yet, it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test now. If she takes the test today, April 4, it should provide a reasonably accurate result, as it is one day after her expected period. If the test is negative and she still does not get her period within a week, it would be wise to take another test or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
It’s important to note that stress, hormonal imbalances, and the use of emergency contraception can all affect menstrual cycles. If she experiences any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or heavy bleeding, she should seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, the best time to take a pregnancy test after unprotected intercourse is around the time of the expected period. If your girlfriend's period is late, she should take a test now for the most accurate result. If the test is negative and her period does not arrive, she should follow up with a healthcare provider.
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