Pregnancy Testing and Hospital Check-Ups: Your Concerns Addressed

Hospital examinations and pregnancy tests?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I had intimate contact with my girlfriend on July 15, but it was only external rubbing, and I took emergency contraception the next day.
I had my period from July 22 to July 26, and there was also some light bleeding on August 7 (which we believe was irregular bleeding).
Later, from August 22 to 27, I visited two obstetricians and one traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
The obstetricians performed an ultrasound and a urine test, and I also did a home urine test, all of which indicated no pregnancy.
However, as of August 30, my period has still not arrived.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Thank you, Dr.
Chang.

Pang Pang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/31

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

What you need is not medical consultation but rather a refresher on sexual health knowledge.
For such inquiries, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Well-being e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation Guide for Adolescent Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

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, diet, uterine or cervical lesions, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among others.
The effects of emergency contraception on menstruation can vary and may not necessarily result in an earlier or delayed period, and its contraceptive effectiveness is not 100%.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist to check for hormonal imbalances or other underlying issues.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2016/08/31

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding pregnancy testing and hospital check-ups. Based on the timeline you've provided, it seems you have taken several steps to monitor your situation, including using emergency contraception and undergoing medical evaluations.

Firstly, it's important to understand that emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) can be effective in preventing pregnancy if taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected intercourse. However, they can also cause temporary changes in your menstrual cycle, which might explain the irregular bleeding you experienced on August 7. This bleeding could indeed be a side effect of the ECP, often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding," which can occur as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes.

Given that you have had two negative urine pregnancy tests and an ultrasound that did not indicate pregnancy, the likelihood of being pregnant is quite low. Urine tests are generally reliable, especially when taken after a missed period. However, it’s worth noting that if you took the tests too early, there could be a chance of a false negative. The hormone hCG, which is detected in pregnancy tests, may not be present in detectable levels until a few days after a missed period.

If your period has not arrived by now, I would recommend waiting a few more days and then taking another home pregnancy test for confirmation. If the test is still negative and you continue to experience irregular bleeding or other symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may suggest a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than urine tests.

Regarding your concerns about the hospital check-ups, it’s crucial to maintain regular visits to a healthcare provider, especially if you are experiencing unusual symptoms. If you have any ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests and possibly additional imaging if necessary.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy seem low based on your tests and the timing of events, it’s essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or if your situation changes. Regular check-ups are vital for your reproductive health, and your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

If you have any further questions or need clarification on any points, feel free to ask! Your health and peace of mind are important.

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