Am I Pregnant? Symptoms Before Your Period

Doctor, is it possible that I am pregnant?

Doctor, my period is due in 5 days, but I am currently feeling some discomfort in my abdomen.
Is it possible that I am pregnant? I took a pregnancy test a week ago, which was 18 days after my last sexual intercourse.
My period started the day after my last sexual encounter, but I was still feeling anxious, so I decided to test.
Can I feel reassured now, considering this abdominal discomfort?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/26

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The pregnancy test has been confirmed, and it was taken 18 days after the last sexual intercourse, so the result can be trusted.
You can feel assured.
The abdominal pain may be due to other reasons, and it is advisable to seek medical evaluation.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/26

More Info

When it comes to determining whether you might be pregnant or experiencing premenstrual symptoms, it can be quite confusing, especially when your menstrual cycle is irregular or when you have recently engaged in unprotected sexual activity. Let's break down the symptoms and the timing of your situation to provide some clarity.

From your description, you mentioned that your period is due in five days, and you are experiencing a sensation of discomfort or heaviness in your abdomen. This feeling can be attributed to several factors, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or early pregnancy symptoms. PMS typically occurs in the luteal phase of your cycle, which is the time between ovulation and the start of your period. Common symptoms of PMS include bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, and abdominal discomfort.

On the other hand, early pregnancy symptoms can sometimes mimic PMS symptoms. These may include nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. However, it’s important to note that many women experience these symptoms in the days leading up to their period, making it difficult to distinguish between the two without further testing.

You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test one week ago, which was 18 days after your last sexual encounter. If your period was due shortly after that, and you had a negative pregnancy test, it is likely that you are not pregnant, especially since you mentioned that your period started the day after the test. Pregnancy tests are generally quite accurate when taken after a missed period, but they can sometimes yield false negatives if taken too early.

Given that your period is expected soon, the abdominal discomfort you are feeling could very well be related to PMS rather than pregnancy. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as heavy bleeding or severe pain, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, based on the timing of your last sexual encounter, the negative pregnancy test, and the proximity of your expected period, it seems more likely that your symptoms are related to PMS rather than early pregnancy. However, if you have any doubts or if your situation changes, seeking medical advice would be the best course of action to ensure your health and peace of mind.

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