Confusion Over Pregnancy Test Results and Thickened Endometrium

Repeated pregnancy test results are confusing, and there is thickening of the endometrium?

Hello, Director Cao.
My menstrual cycle averages 27-28 days, with the longest being 30 days (it has been 27-28 days for the past six months).
The last menstrual period started on March 20 and ended on March 25.
I did not use contraception on March 31 and April 5.
My expected period should have started around April 16 or 17, but it has not arrived.
However, I have been experiencing uterine discomfort and breast tenderness (which I have never experienced before my period).
My bowel movements have been more frequent, leading to diarrhea and soft stools (which usually only occur when my period starts).
On April 17 and 18, I took home pregnancy tests, and both times I saw a very faint second line within 10 minutes.
On the evening of April 18, I went to the hospital for a urine test, which came back negative.
I continued to experience uterine discomfort, cramping, diarrhea, and breast tenderness.
On April 20, I returned to the hospital to discuss these symptoms.
An ultrasound was performed, and the doctor said everything appeared normal, with no signs of pregnancy.
The endometrium looked quite thick, indicating that my period should be coming soon.
However, I am very confused because I have never experienced this before.
What could be the reason? Also, why did the pregnancy tests give me false positives for two consecutive days? I am a very confused young woman and would appreciate your guidance.
Thank you!

Jia Jia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/21

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, a pregnancy test should be taken at least 12 days after conception for accurate results.
A very faint second line may indicate pregnancy.
If your period does not arrive after another week, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/04/21

More Info

Dear Confused Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your recent pregnancy test results and the condition of your endometrium. I understand that this can be a confusing and stressful time, especially when your body is exhibiting unusual symptoms. Let’s break down your situation and address your questions.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that home pregnancy tests (HPTs) can sometimes yield faint lines, which can be misleading. A faint line typically indicates the presence of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. However, if the line is very faint, it could also suggest that the hormone levels are low, which can happen in the early stages of pregnancy or if a miscarriage is occurring. Additionally, testing too early can result in a false negative, as the levels of hCG may not be high enough to detect.

In your case, you mentioned that you had two faint lines on your HPTs on April 17 and 18, but when you went to the hospital for a urine test, it came back negative. This discrepancy can occur for several reasons. The timing of the test is crucial; if you tested before your body had produced enough hCG, it could lead to a negative result despite the faint lines at home. Furthermore, the sensitivity of different pregnancy tests can vary, which may explain the differences in results.

Regarding your symptoms—such as breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and changes in bowel habits—these can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur in your menstrual cycle. The thickened endometrium observed during your ultrasound is also a common finding, especially if your period is delayed. A thickened endometrium can indicate that your body is preparing for menstruation, which may explain the discomfort you are feeling.

It’s also worth noting that stress and anxiety can impact your menstrual cycle and overall hormonal balance, potentially leading to symptoms that mimic those of early pregnancy. If you are feeling particularly anxious about the possibility of being pregnant, it might be beneficial to take some time to relax and allow your body to adjust.

If your period does not arrive soon, I recommend following up with your healthcare provider. They may suggest a blood test to measure your hCG levels, which can provide a more definitive answer regarding pregnancy. Blood tests are more sensitive than urine tests and can detect lower levels of hCG, giving a clearer picture of your situation.

In summary, while the faint lines on your home pregnancy tests are intriguing, the negative result from the hospital and the ultrasound findings suggest that you may not be pregnant at this time. However, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide you with the necessary guidance and support as you navigate this confusing time.

Take care, and I wish you the best in your journey towards understanding your health and potential pregnancy.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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