Pregnancy Chances After Unprotected Intercourse - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to understanding the chances of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, several factors need to be considered, including the timing of the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and the sensitivity of pregnancy tests.

In your case, your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on December 14, and her cycle is typically 28 days long. This means she would likely ovulate around December 28, which is approximately 14 days after the start of her last period. Since you had unprotected intercourse on December 17, this was just a few days before her expected ovulation. Sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive tract for up to five days, so there is a possibility that sperm from the December 17 encounter could still be viable when she ovulates, leading to a chance of conception.

However, the fact that she has not had her period for a week and has taken a pregnancy test that showed only one line (indicating a negative result) raises some questions. Home pregnancy tests are generally quite accurate, especially when taken after a missed period. If she tested too early, it might not have detected the pregnancy hormone (hCG) yet, which is typically produced after implantation occurs. If she is still concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, it would be advisable for her to wait a few days and take another test, or consult a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than urine tests.

As for the missed period, there are several reasons why a woman might experience a delay in her menstrual cycle aside from pregnancy. Stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and other health issues can all contribute to irregularities in the menstrual cycle. Given that your girlfriend is experiencing anxiety about the situation, this stress could also potentially delay her period.

In summary, while there is a chance of pregnancy due to the timing of your unprotected intercourse, the negative pregnancy test suggests that it is less likely. However, if her period does not arrive soon, it would be wise for her to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and possibly a more sensitive pregnancy test. It's important to address both the physical and emotional aspects of this situation, as anxiety can significantly impact menstrual cycles and overall well-being.