Missed Period: Pregnancy Concerns and When to See a Doctor

Missed menstruation?

Hello doctor, I got my period on the 19th, and it was expected to arrive on March 22nd.
Today is the 24th, and it still hasn't come.
I took a pregnancy test yesterday morning, and there was only one line.
I've been experiencing lower back pain and abdominal bloating for the past 2-3 days, and since yesterday, I've felt very fatigued with a noticeable sensation that my period is about to start.
I've also had a small amount of white discharge.
The last time I had intercourse was two weeks ago, and there was a bit of bleeding the next day, which I believe was due to injury.
I always use condoms.
Could I be pregnant, or should I wait a bit longer or see a doctor?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/24

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you are likely not pregnant, but it is best to take preventive measures for contraception.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/24

More Info

When it comes to missed periods and pregnancy concerns, it can be a source of anxiety for many women. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a delay in your menstrual cycle, which can be concerning, especially if you are actively trying to avoid pregnancy. Let's break down your situation and provide some guidance on what steps you should take next.

Firstly, a missed period can be caused by various factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or even illness. Given that your last menstrual period was on the 19th and you expected it to arrive on the 22nd, being a few days late is not uncommon. However, since you mentioned experiencing symptoms such as lower back pain, abdominal bloating, fatigue, and a slight increase in white discharge, it’s understandable that you might be worried about the possibility of pregnancy.

You mentioned that you took a home pregnancy test yesterday and only saw one line, which typically indicates a negative result. However, it’s important to consider a few factors regarding the accuracy of home pregnancy tests:
1. Timing: Home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Since your period is only a couple of days late, it might be beneficial to wait a few more days and test again. Hormone levels (specifically hCG) can take time to build up in your urine after conception.

2. Test Sensitivity: Different pregnancy tests have varying sensitivities. Some can detect lower levels of hCG than others. If you suspect you might be pregnant, using a highly sensitive test or testing with the first morning urine can improve accuracy.

3. Follow-Up Symptoms: If you continue to experience symptoms such as fatigue and abdominal discomfort, it may be worth monitoring these closely. While these can be signs of pregnancy, they can also be attributed to other factors, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or other health issues.

4. Consulting a Doctor: If your period does not arrive within a week or if you continue to have symptoms that concern you, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a more sensitive blood test to determine if you are pregnant and assess any other potential causes for your symptoms.

5. Contraceptive Measures: You mentioned that you have been using condoms during intercourse. While condoms are a reliable form of contraception when used correctly, no method is 100% effective. If there was any breakage or slippage, this could lead to unintended pregnancy.
In conclusion, while it’s possible that you could be pregnant, the negative test result suggests otherwise. It’s advisable to wait a few more days and retest if your period does not start. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms worsen, please do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. They can provide you with the necessary support and guidance tailored to your specific situation. Remember, it’s always better to seek medical advice when in doubt, especially regarding reproductive health.

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