Missed Period: Could It Be Pregnancy After Safe Sex?

Menstruation has not occurred?

On February 19, I had intercourse for the first time, and we used a condom throughout.
From February 19 to March 6, we have had intercourse intermittently.
My last menstrual period started on January 16, and I have not had it since.
However, in the past few days, I have experienced breast tenderness and lower abdominal pain.
Is it possible that I am pregnant? Thank you.

Cheng Cheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, I have responded to the questions you raised earlier.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/07

More Info

When it comes to the possibility of pregnancy after engaging in sexual intercourse with protection, several factors need to be considered. In your case, you mentioned that you had protected sex on February 19th and continued to have sexual activity with condom use until March 6th. Your last menstrual period started on January 16th, and you are now experiencing symptoms such as breast tenderness and lower abdominal pain, but your period has not yet arrived.

First and foremost, it's important to understand that condoms are one of the most effective forms of contraception when used correctly. The failure rate of condoms is approximately 2% with perfect use and about 18% with typical use, which accounts for human error. If you and your partner consistently used condoms throughout your sexual encounters, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk of failure due to factors such as breakage or slippage.

Regarding your missed period, it is essential to consider the timing of your menstrual cycle. If you have a regular cycle, ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If your cycle is around 28 days, your next period would be expected around February 13th. Since you had sexual intercourse around the time of your ovulation, there is a possibility of pregnancy if the condom failed. However, since you have been using condoms consistently, the risk remains low.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as breast tenderness and abdominal pain, can be associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early pregnancy. PMS symptoms can mimic those of early pregnancy, making it challenging to distinguish between the two without a pregnancy test. If your period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy.

If the test is positive, it is essential to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your options and receive appropriate care. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be worthwhile to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out other potential causes for your missed period, such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or other medical conditions.

In summary, while the use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not entirely foolproof. Given your symptoms and missed period, taking a pregnancy test would be the next logical step. If you have further concerns or questions about your reproductive health, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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