Could I Be Pregnant? Early Signs and Testing

Can I get pregnant?

Last month, my period came a week early (on January 6), and the last time I had intercourse was on January 29 without using a condom.
I took a pregnancy test on February 10, which showed negative.
Now my period is almost two weeks late, but during this time, I've had increased discharge and some breast tenderness.
Could I be pregnant?

Polly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/15

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of getting pregnant are generally low.
It is better to take preventive measures for contraception before engaging in sexual activity.
If your period does not arrive after another week, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/15

More Info

When it comes to the possibility of pregnancy, understanding the timing of ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and the accuracy of pregnancy tests is crucial. Based on the information you've provided, let's break down the situation.

Your last menstrual period (LMP) started on January 6, and you had unprotected intercourse on January 29. Given that your menstrual cycle is typically around 28-30 days, ovulation likely occurred around January 20-22, which is approximately two weeks after the start of your last period. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you had intercourse on January 29, it is possible that sperm from that encounter could fertilize an egg if ovulation occurred shortly after.

You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on February 10, which showed a negative result. At this point, it is important to note that the accuracy of home pregnancy tests is highest when taken after a missed period. Since your period was expected around February 6-8, testing on February 10 may have been too early, especially if your cycle is irregular or if ovulation occurred later than expected.

The symptoms you are experiencing—such as increased discharge, breast tenderness, and abdominal discomfort—can be associated with early pregnancy, but they can also be attributed to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or other hormonal changes. It is not uncommon for women to experience these symptoms in the lead-up to their period, particularly if their menstrual cycle is irregular.

Given that your period is now delayed by almost two weeks, it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test. If you still receive a negative result and your period does not start soon after, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test, which is more sensitive than a urine test and can detect pregnancy earlier.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy given the timing of your unprotected intercourse, the negative test result on February 10 suggests that it may be too early to confirm pregnancy. If your symptoms persist and your period does not arrive, seeking medical advice would be the best course of action. Additionally, tracking your menstrual cycle and any changes in your body can provide valuable information for future discussions with your healthcare provider.

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