Pregnancy Test Results and Menstrual Irregularities

Pregnancy test questions?

Hello! I had sexual intercourse on February 4th, but it was safe sex with a condom.
My menstrual period was expected on February 16th, but it has been delayed by 4 days and hasn't arrived yet; it has usually been quite regular, only differing by 1 to 2 days.
I took two pregnancy tests today, both showing a single line, but I'm still not at ease.
I visited a gynecologist and had an abdominal ultrasound (although nothing was seen during the scan), but the doctor mentioned that my uterine lining is slightly thick.
Therefore, although the ultrasound did not show anything, and knowing that my pregnancy tests were negative, the doctor suggested I receive a medication to induce my period (I have never had this medication before).
However, he said that after my period starts, I need to return for a follow-up to check if everything is clear, and he also mentioned that a transvaginal ultrasound would be necessary.
What does this mean? Is there still a possibility that I could be pregnant, or is it just a matter of my cycle being irregular? Or could there be other issues at play?

Xiao Zhu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
On February 4th, I had sexual intercourse, but it was safe sex as I used a condom.
My menstrual period was expected on February 16th, but it has been delayed by 4 days and has not arrived yet.
My periods have usually been quite regular, typically only varying by 1 to 2 days.
Today, I took two pregnancy tests, both showing a single line, but I am still worried.
I visited a gynecologist and had an abdominal ultrasound (although nothing was seen during the scan), but the doctor mentioned that my uterine lining is slightly thick.
Although the ultrasound did not show anything definitive, the doctor was aware of my pregnancy test results showing a single line and suggested that I receive a medication to induce my period (I have never had this medication before).
However, he said that after the medication, if my period starts, I need to return for a follow-up appointment to check if everything is clear; he also mentioned that a transvaginal ultrasound would be necessary.
What does this mean? Answer: Not pregnant.
2.
Is there still a possibility that I could be pregnant? Or is it just a case of a delayed menstrual cycle? Could I have other underlying issues? Answer: Just a delayed menstrual cycle.

Reply Date: 2017/02/20

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex situation regarding your menstrual cycle and potential pregnancy. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

1. Understanding Pregnancy Tests: A home pregnancy test typically detects the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine. A single line usually indicates a negative result, meaning you are not pregnant. However, if you are experiencing a delayed period and have had unprotected intercourse, it is understandable to feel uncertain. False negatives can occur, especially if the test is taken too early or if the urine is diluted. If you suspect you might be pregnant despite the negative test results, it is advisable to wait a few days and retest or consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test, which is more sensitive.

2. Menstrual Irregularities: A delay in your menstrual cycle can be caused by various factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or even illness. Since you mentioned that your periods are usually regular, this delay could be concerning. The fact that your doctor noted a thickened endometrial lining during the ultrasound could indicate that your body is preparing for menstruation, but it does not confirm pregnancy.
3. The Role of the Doctor's Recommendations: Your doctor’s suggestion to administer a menstrual induction injection (催經針) indicates that they believe your body may need assistance to start your period. This is often done when there is a concern about the lining of the uterus being too thick, which can happen if menstruation is delayed. The injection can help shed the lining and bring on your period.
4. Potential for Pregnancy: Given that you had protected intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is lower, but not impossible. Condoms are effective but not infallible. If your period does not start after the injection, further investigation may be warranted, including a follow-up ultrasound or additional blood tests to check hormone levels.

5. Other Health Considerations: If your menstrual irregularities continue, it may be beneficial to explore other underlying health issues. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can affect your menstrual cycle.
6. Next Steps: After receiving the injection, monitor your body for any changes. If your period starts, it may indicate that your body was simply delayed. If it does not, or if you experience any unusual symptoms (such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or other concerning signs), return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
In summary, while the chances of pregnancy seem low given your circumstances, the delay in your period and the thickened uterine lining warrant attention. Following your doctor's advice and keeping track of your symptoms will be crucial in determining the next steps for your reproductive health. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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