Pregnancy Testing and Menstrual Irregularities: Your Concerns Addressed

Pregnancy test questions?

Hello, doctor.
My last menstrual period was on February 13, and I don't remember when it ended.
I had sexual intercourse from February 27 to March 2 while I was abroad.
Since returning home, my period has not arrived, and urine tests have all been negative.
On March 23, I visited a gynecologist, and the urine test was still negative.
An ultrasound showed that my endometrium is thickened.
The doctor indicated that there is a low possibility of pregnancy and prescribed me medication to induce menstruation to take home.
I usually have a very regular menstrual cycle, and I have friends who only tested positive for pregnancy two months in.
I would like to ask if I should take the medication, as I am concerned it might affect the fetus if I am indeed pregnant.

Ms. Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/23

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last menstrual period was on February 13, and the end date is not remembered.
Sexual intercourse occurred from February 27 to March 2 while abroad.
Since returning home, the menstrual period has not arrived, and urine tests have all been negative.
On March 23, a visit to the obstetrician-gynecologist showed that the urine test was still negative, but an ultrasound indicated thickening of the endometrium.
The doctor stated that there is no possibility of pregnancy and prescribed medication to induce menstruation for me to take home.
I usually have a very regular menstrual cycle, and considering that friends around me have tested positive for pregnancy only after two months, I would like to ask if I should take the medication, as I am concerned that it might affect the fetus if I am indeed pregnant.
Answer: On March 30, the urine test was still negative.
Should I take the medication?

Reply Date: 2017/03/23

More Info

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

1. Menstrual Irregularities and Pregnancy Testing: You mentioned that your last menstrual period (LMP) was on February 13, and you had unprotected intercourse from February 27 to March 2. Given that your menstrual cycle is usually regular, the absence of your period could be concerning. However, you have taken urine pregnancy tests that have returned negative results. It's important to note that home pregnancy tests are generally reliable, but they can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. The hormone hCG, which is detected by these tests, may not be at detectable levels until a few days after a missed period.
2. Thickened Endometrium: The ultrasound finding of a thickened endometrium could indicate several things, including the possibility of pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or other conditions such as endometrial hyperplasia. Since your doctor has suggested that you are not pregnant and has prescribed medication to induce menstruation, it may be a way to help regulate your cycle and shed the thickened lining.

3. Concerns about Medication: You expressed concern about taking medication that could potentially affect a future pregnancy. If you are not currently pregnant, taking medication to induce menstruation is generally considered safe. However, if there is any chance of pregnancy, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on the risks and benefits of taking the medication in your specific situation.

4. Next Steps: If you are still unsure about your pregnancy status after taking the medication, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend a blood test for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than urine tests and can provide a definitive answer. Additionally, if your period does not resume after taking the medication, further evaluation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your menstrual irregularities.

5. Psychological Impact: It's understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of being pregnant, especially when faced with conflicting information. Consider discussing your feelings with a healthcare professional who can provide support and reassurance.
In summary, if your healthcare provider has assessed that you are not pregnant and has prescribed medication to help regulate your cycle, it is likely safe to proceed with that treatment. However, if you have any lingering doubts or if your situation changes, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation and guidance. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and open communication with your healthcare provider is key to navigating this situation effectively.

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