Delayed Menstruation: Is Pregnancy Possible?

Menstrual delay

Your girlfriend's last menstrual period started on May 28.
On June 4, you used a condom, but it broke.
However, you withdrew before ejaculation.
Since then, you have had sexual intercourse multiple times, always using condoms.
Her period was expected on June 26, but it has not arrived yet.
You have taken a pregnancy test, which came back negative, and today is the 29th.
Why hasn't her period come yet? Is there a possibility of pregnancy?

Zhuang Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/29

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, sometimes mood can cause irregular menstruation.
If you have had a single instance of unprotected intercourse, pregnancy is unlikely, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/06/29

More Info

Delayed menstruation can indeed raise concerns about pregnancy, especially when there has been unprotected intercourse or a contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. In your case, since your girlfriend's last menstrual period was on May 28 and she was expected to have her period by June 26, the delay of a few days can understandably cause anxiety. However, it is important to consider several factors that could contribute to a missed period.

Firstly, while a missed period is often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy, it is not definitive proof of pregnancy. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, especially when taken after a missed period. If your girlfriend has taken a pregnancy test and it has come back negative, it is a good indication that she is not pregnant, particularly if the test was taken correctly and at the right time. Most home pregnancy tests can detect pregnancy about a week after a missed period, as they measure the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in urine, which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus.

However, there are several reasons why a period might be delayed aside from pregnancy. Stress is a significant factor that can affect the menstrual cycle. Given that life events, such as exams or other pressures, can lead to increased stress levels, this could potentially delay menstruation. Hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, excessive exercise, or underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also contribute to irregular menstrual cycles.

In your situation, it is also worth noting that even with the use of condoms, there is still a small chance of pregnancy if the condom fails. If the condom broke but you withdrew before ejaculation, the risk of pregnancy is lower, but not eliminated. If your girlfriend continues to experience a delayed period, it may be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. A doctor can perform a blood test for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home urine tests, and can also check for any underlying health issues that may be causing the delay.

In summary, while a delayed period can be concerning and may indicate pregnancy, it is not the only explanation. Given that your girlfriend has tested negative for pregnancy, it is likely that other factors are at play. If her period does not arrive soon, or if she has any other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice would be the best course of action. It’s important to maintain open communication with her and support her during this time, as stress and anxiety can further complicate the situation.

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