Pregnancy Chances: Symptoms and Concerns Explained

Am I pregnant? Is it possible to get pregnant? What is the probability of pregnancy?

Hello Dr.
Tsao, I haven't gotten my period yet, and due to work commitments, I can't make time to visit a gynecologist.
I'm feeling extremely anxious, so I'm reaching out with my questions.
My last menstrual period was from January 5 to January 11, and then from January 19 to January 25, with the app predicting my ovulation window around January 24 (the app estimates ovulation on the 24th).
On January 23, I noticed an increase in discharge, which was most watery on January 24, causing me to change my panty liner frequently.
On January 26, I started to feel some breast tenderness, and on January 27, I experienced some abdominal discomfort (though it didn't feel like my usual ovulation pain).
On January 28, the discharge appeared slightly yellowish-white.
On January 29, I had sexual intercourse (with a condom throughout), and we did not ejaculate.
Afterward, I used my hand to help my partner finish, and I checked for any breakage in the condom with water, which showed no leaks.
On January 30, I noticed a small amount of blood on my underwear (could this be post-coital bleeding?).
Since then, there has been no further bleeding or discomfort.
The app predicts my period should start between February 7 and February 13, but as of today, February 9, my period has not arrived.
I've also noticed that my body temperature has been slightly elevated, reaching 37.1°C yesterday (February 8), which is unusual for me before my period.
My breasts are still tender, and I've occasionally felt a dull, stabbing pain in my abdomen.
I took a pregnancy test on February 8 and 9, both of which were negative.
I would like to know what the likelihood of pregnancy is in this situation.
It's been 18 days since the sexual encounter, and I'm worried that the test may not be accurate.
I'm experiencing discomfort, but my period hasn't come, which is the first time it's been late since the sexual encounter, and I'm feeling very anxious! I'm also concerned that my anxiety might be delaying my period further.
😰

Xiao Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/09

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I have responded to your inquiry.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/02/09

More Info

Understanding your concerns about pregnancy and the symptoms you're experiencing is crucial, especially when anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms. Based on the timeline and symptoms you've described, let's break down the situation.

First, it's important to note that your menstrual cycle can be influenced by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, and lifestyle. The fact that your last menstrual period was from January 5 to January 11, and you had sexual intercourse on January 29, places you in a potential window for conception, especially since you mentioned observing changes in your cervical mucus around your ovulation period. The presence of clear, watery discharge is often associated with ovulation, which typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period.

The symptoms you're experiencing, such as breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and a slight increase in basal body temperature, can be indicative of early pregnancy. However, these symptoms can also be related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or other hormonal fluctuations. The slight bleeding you noted on January 30 could be implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, but it could also be related to other factors, such as irritation from sexual activity.

Regarding your pregnancy tests returning negative on February 8 and 9, it's essential to understand that home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Since your period is expected around February 7 to 13, testing too early can lead to false negatives. If your period does not arrive within a few days, it would be advisable to retest or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier than urine tests.

Your anxiety about the possibility of being pregnant is understandable, especially given the physical symptoms you're experiencing. Stress can indeed affect your menstrual cycle, potentially delaying your period. It's essential to find ways to manage this anxiety, whether through relaxation techniques, talking to someone about your feelings, or engaging in activities that help you feel more at ease.

In terms of next steps, if your period does not arrive soon and you continue to have symptoms, consider scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can provide a more accurate assessment and discuss your symptoms in detail. If you are pregnant, they can guide you through the next steps in your pregnancy journey. If you are not pregnant, they can help identify any underlying issues that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy based on your timeline and symptoms, the negative tests suggest that it may be too early to confirm. Monitoring your symptoms and considering a follow-up test or consultation with a healthcare provider will provide clarity and help address your concerns. Remember, it's essential to take care of your mental health during this time, as it can significantly impact your overall well-being.

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