Do You Need to Retest for Pregnancy? Your Cycle and Symptoms

Is it necessary to take another pregnancy test?

The last menstrual period was on February 28, with an average cycle of about 33-35 days.
I had intercourse on March 10, March 11, March 12, March 18, March 25, March 26, and March 28.
My period for March has not arrived yet.
I often experience back pain and had a sharp pain in my nipples around mid-March that lasted several days.
If I remember correctly, after the nipple pain, the discharge has consistently been yellow-green or light yellow (it was still present on April 6).
On March 29, due to lower abdominal pain for two consecutive days, I went to a clinic for a pregnancy test and ultrasound, and the doctor said I was not pregnant.
On April 6, I took a home pregnancy test again, and it still showed one line.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant, or is it just a simple cycle irregularity? Also, how long should I wait for my period to arrive before I need to take another pregnancy test or see a doctor?

Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/08

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last menstrual period was on February 28, with an average cycle of about 33-35 days.
I had intercourse on March 10, March 11, March 12, March 18, March 25, March 26, and March 28.
My period for March has not arrived yet.
I often experience back pain and had a sharp pain in my nipples around mid-March that lasted several days.
If I remember correctly, after the nipple pain, the discharge has consistently been yellow-green or light yellow (it was still present on April 6).
On March 29, due to lower abdominal pain for two consecutive days, I went to a clinic for a pregnancy test and ultrasound.
The doctor said I was not pregnant.
On April 6, I took a home pregnancy test again, and it still showed one line.
Is it possible that I am pregnant, or is this just a simple cycle irregularity? If my period does not arrive by when, should I take another pregnancy test or see a doctor?
Answer: Take another pregnancy test on April 20.
If it shows one line, it is likely just a simple cycle irregularity, and you should see a doctor for menstrual induction.
If it shows two lines, you are pregnant, and you should see a doctor for prenatal care.

Reply Date: 2017/04/08

More Info

Based on your detailed description, it seems you are experiencing a complex situation regarding your menstrual cycle and potential pregnancy. Let's break down the key points and provide guidance on whether you should retest for pregnancy and what your symptoms might indicate.

Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle and Symptoms
Your last menstrual period (LMP) was on February 28, and you have a cycle that averages between 33 to 35 days. This means that your next expected period would typically fall around late March to early April. However, since you mentioned that your period has not arrived yet, it raises the question of whether you could be pregnant or if your cycle is simply irregular.

You have also reported symptoms such as back pain, breast tenderness (specifically, a stabbing pain in the nipples), and unusual discharge that is yellow-green or light yellow. These symptoms can be associated with both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and early pregnancy.

Pregnancy Testing
You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on March 29, which came back negative, and you also had an ultrasound that did not indicate pregnancy. However, you are still experiencing symptoms that could suggest pregnancy. It is important to note that home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, as they measure the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine, which typically rises significantly after implantation occurs.

Given that your period is already late, if you have not yet received your period by the time you reach a week past your expected date (around April 7), it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test. If the test remains negative and your period still does not arrive, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

When to See a Doctor
If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention promptly:
1. Severe Abdominal Pain: If the pain becomes intense or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever or vomiting.

2. Heavy Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon in an hour or less.

3. Persistent Symptoms: If your symptoms (like breast tenderness or unusual discharge) continue without improvement or worsen.

Possible Causes of Irregular Cycles
Irregular menstrual cycles can be caused by various factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If your cycles have been consistently irregular or if you have concerns about your reproductive health, it would be beneficial to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while your negative pregnancy test and ultrasound suggest that you may not be pregnant, your delayed period and symptoms warrant further observation. Retesting for pregnancy after a week past your expected period is recommended. If the results remain negative and your period does not arrive, or if you have any concerning symptoms, please consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. They can provide personalized advice and help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and irregular cycle.
Remember, your health is paramount, and seeking medical advice when in doubt is always a prudent choice.

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