How soon after intercourse can pregnancy be detected?
Disease description:
My husband and I are actively trying to conceive, and after each sexual intercourse we feel hopeful for good news. Previously, I heard from others that it's possible to detect pregnancy with a test just a few days after intercourse, but some people say you have to wait much longer. We aren't quite sure exactly how long after intercourse an accurate pregnancy test can be obtained, and we feel especially anxious, fearing we might miss the best time for testing. Therefore, we would like to ask the doctor when is the appropriate time to take a pregnancy test?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
If a urine test using a pregnancy test strip or test paper is chosen, pregnancy can be detected 14 days after sexual intercourse; if a blood HCG test is selected, pregnancy may be detectable around 10 days post-intercourse. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Generally after sexual intercourse, the sperm combines with the egg to form a fertilized egg, which travels through the fallopian tube and implants into the uterine lining. This process usually takes approximately 6-10 days. After implantation, trophoblast cells begin secreting HCG. As time progresses, HCG levels in both the blood and urine gradually rise. In early pregnancy, when HCG secretion is low, the timing for detecting pregnancy may vary depending on the testing method used. Urine tests have relatively lower sensitivity, whereas blood tests can detect HCG earlier and more accurately.
If a urine test using a pregnancy test strip or test paper is chosen, it is recommended to perform the test about 14 days after sexual intercourse, as the HCG concentration in urine will be relatively higher at this time, resulting in more accurate test results. Testing too early may lead to false-negative results due to low HCG levels.
Blood HCG testing is more sensitive than urine testing and can typically be performed around 10 days after sexual intercourse, enabling earlier detection of pregnancy.
Regardless of the testing method used, if the test result is inconclusive or there are any doubts, it is recommended to repeat the test one week later or visit a hospital for further detailed examinations, such as ultrasound, to confirm pregnancy and determine whether it is an intrauterine pregnancy.
