How Long Does It Take to Conceive After Having Sex?

The exact time of fertilization after sexual intercourse cannot be precisely determined. However, fertilization typically needs to be completed within 72 hours. About 8-12 days after sexual intercourse, a blood hCG test at the hospital can be used to determine whether pregnancy has occurred.

1. Amenorrhea: In healthy women of reproductive age with a history of sexual activity and regular menstrual cycles, amenorrhea (missed period) for more than 10 days should raise the suspicion of pregnancy. If amenorrhea persists for more than 2 months, the possibility of pregnancy increases.

2. Early Pregnancy Symptoms: These typically manifest around the 6th week of amenorrhea, including chills, dizziness, fatigue, lethargy, loss of appetite, aversion to greasy food, nausea and vomiting, and a preference for acidic foods. These symptoms usually disappear spontaneously around the 12th week of amenorrhea.

3. Increased Frequency of Urination: This is caused by the enlarged uterus pressing on the bladder within the pelvic cavity. As the uterus enlarges and moves out of the pelvic cavity, the frequent urination symptoms naturally disappear.

4. Breast Changes: Breast tenderness may be experienced, and examination may reveal gradual enlargement of the breasts, enlargement of the nipples, and deepening of the color of the nipple and areola.

5. Pelvic Examination: Around 6-8 weeks of amenorrhea, the isthmus of the uterus becomes extremely soft, and the uterus gradually enlarges and softens, adopting a spherical shape.

6. Elevated Basal Body Temperature: If the basal body temperature remains elevated for more than 3 weeks, the possibility of early pregnancy increases.