Could You Be Pregnant? Delayed Menstruation Symptoms - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Delayed menstruation?


Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask, my period started on March 23, with an average cycle of 28-30 days.
I haven't gotten my period this month yet.
I had sexual intercourse on April 5 and April 11.
From April 15 to April 24, my basal body temperature has been between 36.6 and 36.8 degrees Celsius, and I have noticed some light, odorless white discharge.
Sometimes in the evening, I feel a bit of discomfort in my abdomen, but my breasts do not feel swollen or painful.
Is it possible that I am pregnant?

Luci, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/24

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, a pregnancy test should be taken at least 12 days after conception to yield accurate results.
It is advisable to use contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy.
If your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/04/24

More Info


When considering the possibility of pregnancy, it is essential to understand the various signs and symptoms that may indicate a change in your reproductive status. In your case, you have mentioned a delayed menstruation, which is often one of the first signs of pregnancy. However, it is important to note that a missed period can also be attributed to other factors, such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or changes in lifestyle.

Given your average menstrual cycle of 28-30 days, and the fact that your last period started on March 23, it is reasonable to consider that you may be experiencing a delayed period if it has not arrived by now. Engaging in sexual intercourse on April 5 and April 11, particularly if it was unprotected, increases the likelihood of conception. The body temperature readings you provided (36.6-36.8 degrees Celsius) are within the normal range, but tracking basal body temperature can be a useful tool for understanding ovulation and potential pregnancy.

The presence of clear, odorless discharge can be a normal sign of hormonal changes in your body, which can occur during the menstrual cycle or early pregnancy. Some women may experience mild cramping or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen, which can also be associated with early pregnancy. However, it is crucial to differentiate between normal menstrual symptoms and those that may indicate pregnancy.

To confirm whether you are pregnant, the most reliable method is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to take the test after your missed period, as this allows for higher levels of hCG to be present in your urine.

If the test is positive, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your pregnancy and any necessary prenatal care. If the test is negative but your period does not arrive, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare professional to explore other potential causes for the delay.

In summary, while there are several signs that may suggest pregnancy, the only way to confirm it is through a pregnancy test. If you have concerns about your symptoms or your menstrual cycle, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. Remember, early prenatal care is crucial for the health of both you and your potential baby.

Similar Q&A

Concerns About Pregnancy: Delayed Menstruation and Symptoms Explained

After my period ended on January 25, I had unprotected intercourse with withdrawal. My period came on February 27, so I didn't take a pregnancy test. However, my period for March has not arrived yet, but I am experiencing premenstrual symptoms such as nipple tenderness, incr...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, pregnan...

[Read More] Concerns About Pregnancy: Delayed Menstruation and Symptoms Explained


Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes Beyond Pregnancy

I’m sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like you are experiencing premenstrual symptoms, but your period is still delayed. In addition to abdominal pain, you mentioned not feeling excessively sleepy or nauseous, but occasionally feeling warm, which then returns to norma...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within 72 hours after intercourse is about 97%. However, it is not 100% effective, and there is approximately a 3% failure rate, but it is still considered a remedial option. Additionally, early pregnancy may not present s...

[Read More] Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes Beyond Pregnancy


Could Delayed Menstruation Indicate Pregnancy? Key Tests to Consider

On March 14, there was external friction with my girlfriend's genital area, but there was no penetration. On March 27, she had her menstrual period, and about one to two weeks later, she experienced some abnormal bleeding. This month, her period has not yet arrived. Is it po...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if your period has arrived, it is likely that you are not pregnant. Just monitor your condition. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Could Delayed Menstruation Indicate Pregnancy? Key Tests to Consider


Missed Period: Pregnancy Signs or Just Delayed Menstruation?

I am preparing to conceive my second child. My last menstrual period started on January 10, and on February 15, I had only a very light flow that lasted for just one day. Since February 5, I have been experiencing some breast tenderness, which continues to this day. I have taken ...


Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Gu Tu: Menstrual delays or early pregnancy can present a wide variety of symptoms that make it difficult to determine a diagnosis based solely on symptoms. Ultimately, it requires appropriate patience and observation.

[Read More] Missed Period: Pregnancy Signs or Just Delayed Menstruation?


Related FAQ

Delayed Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Delay Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Am I Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Cramps

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Premenstrual Syndrome

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

First Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Date

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Preparing For Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)