Pregnancy Tests and Hormonal Regulation Concerns

Pregnancy testing and hormone regulation medication issues?

Hello Doctor, my menstrual cycle has been very irregular, so the timing is often off.
The last sexual encounter was on February 14, during which we used a condom throughout and I pulled out before ejaculation (the condom remained intact).
My boyfriend also checked the condom afterward by filling it with water to ensure there were no leaks.
However, since we were traveling abroad, we used a hotel-provided condom, which makes me quite anxious.

Later, my period was already delayed, and I had my first sexual encounter in January.
After returning home, my period started on February 18 and lasted for 7 days.
Still feeling uneasy, I took a pregnancy test on February 20 using a test kit that seemed to be from Formosa Plastics (purple packaging), which showed one line.
The next day, I visited a gynecologist who confirmed that I was not pregnant and conducted a blood test to check hormone levels for infertility (I am currently not seeking pregnancy, just trying to regulate my hormones).
The results showed a high prolactin level of around 42.

I am currently taking medication to suppress prolactin and also taking a medication to regulate my cycle.
However, I still feel uneasy because I think it was too early to test.
So, on March 20, I used the same brand of pregnancy test again, and it still showed one line (it didn't develop a second white line like the first time; does that mean it won't always do that?).
I would like to know if I can be certain that I am not pregnant, or if I need to do any further tests for confirmation.

I started taking the medication to regulate my cycle around February 25, after my period ended on February 18, and continued until March 17.
I had my first day without medication on March 18, and my period came on March 21.
I started the second batch of medication on March 25.
If I were to be pregnant while taking the medication, what symptoms should I expect? For instance, would my period be absent? I have been feeling nauseous from the prolactin-suppressing medication, so I am unsure if that is due to the medication or if I might be pregnant.
Thank you, and I apologize for the lengthy message.
I hope to receive some advice, as I am quite worried.

BB, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/09

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if your menstrual period has arrived and the pregnancy test shows one line, the chances of being pregnant are low.
It is always best to use preventive measures beforehand and not to rely on the safe period.
Taking medication to suppress lactation hormones may cause feelings of nausea, which is just a side effect of the medication.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/04/09

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a lot of anxiety regarding your potential pregnancy and the effects of the medications you are taking. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

First, regarding your sexual activity on February 14, you mentioned that you used a condom and that your boyfriend checked it for leaks afterward. This is a good practice, and if the condom was intact throughout the intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and it's understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, especially if your menstrual cycle is irregular.

You noted that your period arrived on February 18 and lasted for seven days. A regular menstrual period is a strong indicator that you are not pregnant, especially since you had a negative home pregnancy test on February 20. Home pregnancy tests, like the one you used, are generally reliable when used correctly. They detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. If you received a negative result and your period followed shortly after, it is unlikely that you are pregnant.

Regarding your hormonal concerns, you mentioned that your prolactin levels were elevated, which can affect your menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health. Elevated prolactin can lead to irregular periods and may cause symptoms such as nausea, which you are experiencing. The medications you are taking to suppress prolactin levels and regulate your menstrual cycle should help restore your hormonal balance over time. It’s important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding these medications and to keep them informed about any side effects you experience.

As for your follow-up pregnancy test on March 20, if it also showed a negative result, it further supports the idea that you are not pregnant. The appearance of a single line on a home pregnancy test indicates a negative result, and while tests can sometimes show faint lines if they are left to sit for too long, this is not a reliable indicator of pregnancy. If you are concerned about the accuracy of the test, you could consider repeating it a few days after your expected period or consulting your healthcare provider for a blood test, which is more sensitive and can detect pregnancy earlier than home tests.

Regarding your question about the effects of the medications you are taking, if you were to become pregnant while on these medications, it is crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider. Some medications can affect pregnancy, but your doctor can provide guidance based on your specific situation and the medications you are using.

In summary, based on the information you provided, it seems unlikely that you are pregnant given your menstrual history and the negative pregnancy tests. However, if you continue to have concerns or if your menstrual irregularities persist, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and reassurance. They can help you navigate your hormonal issues and any potential implications for your reproductive health. Remember, it's always best to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and symptoms.

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