Can pregnancy be detected if the menstrual period is delayed by 4 days?

Generally speaking, whether pregnancy can be detected four days after a missed period depends on specific circumstances. If the menstrual cycle is usually regular and ovulation occurs early, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the body may rise quickly, making it possible to detect pregnancy through early pregnancy testing. However, if the menstrual cycle is irregular or ovulation occurs late, pregnancy might not be detectable for the time being. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the menstrual cycle is usually regular, and ovulation occurs on time or earlier than usual, embryo implantation may happen earlier after conception, and the hCG level in the body typically begins to rise 7–10 days after conception. When the menstrual period is four days late, some individuals might be able to detect pregnancy using a home pregnancy test or blood test.

If the menstrual cycle is usually irregular or ovulation is delayed in this cycle, conception may occur later, resulting in a later implantation of the embryo and a slower rise in hCG levels. When the menstrual period is four days late, the hCG level may still be below the threshold detectable by home pregnancy tests or routine testing methods, and pregnancy might not yet be detectable.

To improve the accuracy of the test and ensure proper physical care, when the menstrual period is four days late, it is recommended to use first-morning urine for a home pregnancy test or to undergo a blood test directly.