Am I Pregnant? Symptoms and Concerns After Intercourse - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Can I get pregnant?


Doctor, I got my period on September 21.
I had unprotected intercourse on October 5 during my ovulation period and again on October 18.
My period was due on October 19, but it hasn't arrived.
I've been experiencing continuous discharge, abdominal bloating, and lower back pain.
I visited a gynecologist on October 19, where I had a urine test that showed no pregnancy and a vaginal ultrasound that showed no abnormalities in my uterus or ovaries.
The doctor mentioned that I have severe bloating and prescribed medication for it, advising me to wait for my period, stating that a delay of 1 to 2 days is normal.
However, it has now been 9 days without my period.
I also took a home pregnancy test on the 27th, which showed only one line.
This week, I've been experiencing breast tenderness, lower back pain, and intermittent abdominal pain on both the left and right sides.
The discharge has not stopped.
What could be my condition?

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/27

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, Xiao Yu: If you are not pregnant, your current situation may likely be due to menstrual irregularities.
You might consider trying to induce menstruation; perhaps once your period arrives, the symptoms of breast tenderness, abdominal pain, and lower back discomfort will improve.

Reply Date: 2016/10/27

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a lot of anxiety and uncertainty regarding your potential pregnancy, especially given the timeline and symptoms you've described. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns.

From your account, you had your last menstrual period on September 21, ovulated around October 5, and had unprotected intercourse on October 5 and October 18. You mentioned that your period was due on October 19 but has not arrived yet, which is understandably causing you concern. You also reported symptoms such as abdominal bloating, lower back pain, and breast tenderness, which can be associated with both early pregnancy and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

You visited a gynecologist on October 19, who performed a urine pregnancy test and an ultrasound, both of which indicated that you were not pregnant. The doctor noted that you had significant bloating and prescribed medication to help with that. It's important to remember that a urine pregnancy test can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. However, since you have had a negative test and an ultrasound that showed no abnormalities, it is less likely that you are pregnant.

The symptoms you are experiencing—bloating, lower back pain, and breast tenderness—can also be attributed to hormonal changes in your body, especially if your menstrual cycle is irregular or if you are experiencing premenstrual symptoms. Stress and anxiety can also exacerbate physical symptoms, leading to a cycle of worry that can make you feel worse.

Given that your period is late, it is still possible that it could arrive soon, as menstrual cycles can vary in length due to various factors, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, and lifestyle changes. It is not uncommon for periods to be delayed for a few days or even longer, particularly if you are feeling anxious or stressed.

Here are a few recommendations to help you manage your situation:
1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and any changes you notice. If your period does not arrive within a week or if your symptoms worsen, consider following up with your healthcare provider.

2. Consider a Blood Test: If you continue to have concerns about pregnancy, a blood test can provide a more accurate result than a urine test, as it can detect lower levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG.

3. Manage Anxiety: Since anxiety can amplify physical symptoms, consider engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation. These practices can help reduce stress and may alleviate some of your physical discomfort.

4. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and engage in regular physical activity, which can help regulate your menstrual cycle and improve your overall well-being.

5. Follow-Up with Your Doctor: If your symptoms persist or if you have further concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for additional guidance. They can help assess your situation and provide appropriate care.

In summary, while your symptoms and the delay in your period are understandably concerning, the medical evaluations you've undergone suggest that you are not pregnant. However, if your period does not arrive soon or if you continue to experience discomfort, seeking further medical advice is a good idea. Remember, it's important to take care of both your physical and mental health during this time.

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