Is Blood Pregnancy Test Accurate 10 Days After Intercourse? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to determining pregnancy through blood tests, timing is crucial. Generally, a blood pregnancy test can detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as early as 6 to 8 days after conception. However, for the most accurate results, it is recommended to wait at least 10 to 14 days after potential conception or unprotected intercourse.

In your case, since you had intercourse on January 30 and took a blood test on February 8, this is approximately 9 days post-intercourse. The hCG level you received, which is 0.2 mIU/ml, is considered very low and typically indicates that you are not pregnant. Most laboratories consider a level of hCG above 5 mIU/ml as a positive result for pregnancy. Therefore, with your result being significantly below this threshold, it is reasonable to conclude that you are not pregnant.

It’s important to note that while blood tests are generally more sensitive and accurate than urine tests, they can still yield false negatives if taken too early. If you suspect you might be pregnant despite a negative result, it is advisable to wait a few more days and retest, or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In addition, if you experienced a condom break during intercourse, and especially if it occurred during your ovulation period, there is a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you took emergency contraception shortly after the incident, this significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but they can work up to 5 days after.

If you continue to have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and may recommend further testing or monitoring of your hormone levels.

In summary, based on your hCG level of 0.2 mIU/ml taken 9 days after intercourse, it is unlikely that you are pregnant. However, if you have any lingering doubts or symptoms, follow up with your doctor for peace of mind and further guidance.