Am I Pregnant? Symptoms and Concerns After Contraceptive Use

Am I pregnant?

Last month, I took the emergency contraceptive pill, and my period started on February 16.
After that, I had sexual intercourse using condoms or with withdrawal.
However, this month, my period has not arrived by March 16.
I took pregnancy tests on March 15 and March 19, both of which were negative.
I have been feeling a persistent fullness in my uterus, which I initially thought was due to constipation, so I took some laxatives that did help, but after finishing the medication, the constipation returned.
Sometimes I do have bowel movements, but they are not very smooth.

On March 16, I suddenly experienced intense itching in my vagina.
I researched online and found that it could be a yeast infection or trichomoniasis, as I noticed yellowish discharge when I wiped.
A friend of mine had a similar issue before, so he gave me his medication and suppositories.
After using them for 2-3 days, I felt some improvement.

Now, I am wondering if my period will still come.
Shouldn't the fullness in my uterus indicate that it is about to arrive? My breasts feel tender, and I am unsure if this is due to hormonal changes or if I might be pregnant...

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/21

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if the chances of pregnancy are low, it's important to wait and take preventive measures beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late or if you are experiencing any discomfort, you may want to consider seeing a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/21

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a lot of uncertainty and concern regarding your potential pregnancy and the symptoms you're facing. Let's break down your situation and address your questions.

First, it's important to note that the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") can sometimes lead to changes in your menstrual cycle. After taking emergency contraception, some women may experience their next period earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. Since you mentioned that your last period started on February 16 and you are now concerned about a missed period on March 16, it is possible that the emergency contraception has affected your cycle.

You also mentioned that you have been using condoms and practicing withdrawal during intercourse, which are generally effective methods of contraception when used correctly. However, no method is 100% effective, and it's understandable to be concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like breast tenderness and abdominal fullness.

Regarding your symptoms, the "fullness" in your uterus could be related to several factors, including hormonal changes, gastrointestinal issues (like constipation), or even premenstrual symptoms. The fact that you experienced constipation and have taken medication for it could also contribute to the feeling of fullness or discomfort in your abdomen.

The itching you experienced in your vaginal area, along with yellow discharge, may suggest a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, which are common conditions that can occur independently of pregnancy. It's good that you sought treatment for this, but it's essential to ensure that any medication you use is safe and appropriate for your situation, especially if you are concerned about being pregnant.

As for your negative pregnancy tests on March 15 and 19, it's worth noting that home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, but they can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. If your period does not arrive soon, it may be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can provide a more definitive answer regarding pregnancy.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they do not definitively indicate pregnancy. The changes in your menstrual cycle could be due to the emergency contraception, and the other symptoms might be related to infections or gastrointestinal issues. If your period does not arrive soon, or if your symptoms worsen, I recommend reaching out to a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can help you understand your symptoms better and provide appropriate treatment options if necessary. Remember, it's always best to consult with a medical professional when you have concerns about your health.

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