Confusion About Pregnancy: Signs, Tests, and Next Steps - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Unsure if pregnant?


Doctor, my wife's last menstrual period was on October 2nd.
We want to conceive and went to the hospital for an examination.
On October 18th, the doctor administered an ovulation trigger shot and mentioned that the best chances for conception were on the 18th, 19th, and 20th.
We made sure to have intercourse during those days.
On November 1st, when my wife returned for a follow-up, the test showed a faint second line.
The doctor advised her to test again in two days, but the subsequent tests only showed one line.
Recently, my wife has been feeling fatigued and experiencing lower abdominal pain.
She is very confused about whether or not she is pregnant.

Xiao Li, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/06

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


If you suspect you might be pregnant, it is advisable to monitor your condition and follow your physician's instructions to see an obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/11/06

More Info


It sounds like you and your wife are going through a challenging time with uncertainty about her pregnancy status. Based on the timeline you've provided, let's break down the situation and discuss the signs, tests, and next steps.

Your wife's last menstrual period (LMP) was on October 2, and she received an ovulation trigger shot on October 18. The timing of the shot suggests that the most fertile days would indeed be around October 18-20, which aligns with your efforts to conceive. After this period, it is common for women to experience a variety of symptoms as their bodies adjust to potential pregnancy.

The faint line on the pregnancy test on November 1 could indicate a very early pregnancy, but it is also possible that it was a false positive or an evaporation line, especially if the test was not taken with first-morning urine, which is typically more concentrated. The fact that subsequent tests showed only one line suggests that your wife may not be pregnant, but it is important to consider that testing too early can lead to inaccurate results.

Fatigue and lower abdominal pain can be common symptoms in early pregnancy, but they can also be attributed to other factors such as hormonal changes, stress, or even premenstrual symptoms. It is not uncommon for women to feel tired or experience cramping around the time their period is due, even if they are not pregnant.

Given the uncertainty, here are some recommendations for next steps:
1. Wait and Retest: Since your wife has already tested a few times, it might be beneficial to wait a few more days and then retest. If she misses her period (which would be expected around November 2-4 based on her cycle), a home pregnancy test taken at that time may yield more reliable results.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your wife continues to feel fatigued or experiences significant pain, it would be wise to consult her healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to check for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home urine tests. Additionally, they can evaluate her symptoms to rule out any other potential issues.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any other symptoms your wife may experience, such as changes in her menstrual cycle, breast tenderness, nausea, or any unusual discharge. This information can be helpful for her healthcare provider.

4. Consider Emotional Support: The process of trying to conceive can be emotionally taxing. It might be beneficial for both of you to talk about your feelings and concerns, whether with each other, friends, or a professional counselor.

5. Lifestyle Factors: Ensure that your wife is maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Reducing stress through relaxation techniques or light physical activity can also be beneficial.

In summary, while the signs and symptoms your wife is experiencing can be confusing, it is essential to approach the situation with patience. Waiting a few days to retest and consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation will provide clarity and help you both move forward, whether that means celebrating a new pregnancy or preparing for the next cycle. Remember, many couples experience ups and downs on their journey to parenthood, and seeking support can make a significant difference.

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