Delayed Menstruation: Could Pregnancy Be the Cause?

Delayed menstruation?

Hello, my last menstrual period started on March 12.
Around the end of March, I engaged in some intimate touching with my boyfriend, who was wearing underwear, but there was no ejaculation (I was not wearing underwear).
Since my first period, I have not had a regular cycle; typically, I am only late by a maximum of 20 days without stress.
I work at an ice shop, so I eat ice almost every day and frequently consume watermelon.
My next expected period should be between April 12 and 20, but it still hasn't arrived.
I also consulted a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who prescribed me medication for menstruation for four days, but I still haven't gotten my period.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant?

M, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/09

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last menstrual period started on March 12.
Around the end of March, I engaged in foreplay with my boyfriend, during which he was wearing underwear and rubbed against my genital area, but there was no ejaculation (I was not wearing underwear).
Since my first period, I have not had a regular cycle; normally, without stress, my period is at most 20 days late.
I work at an ice shop, so I eat ice almost every day and frequently consume watermelon.
My next expected period should be between April 12 and 20, but it still hasn't arrived.
I also consulted a traditional Chinese medicine doctor, who prescribed me menstrual regulation medication for four days, but my period still hasn't come.
Is it possible that I am pregnant?
Answer: It is unlikely that you are pregnant.
The doctor has prescribed you medication to regulate your menstrual cycle.
If you still do not have your period after 14 days, you should consult a physician again.

Reply Date: 2017/05/09

More Info

Delayed menstruation can indeed be a sign of pregnancy, but it is not the only reason for a missed period. In your case, since you mentioned that your last menstrual period was on March 12 and you engaged in intimate activities towards the end of March without penetration, the likelihood of pregnancy is relatively low, especially if there was no ejaculation. However, it is important to note that pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, albeit in small amounts, which could potentially lead to pregnancy, albeit with a lower probability.

Given that you have not had your period since March and have taken herbal medicine to induce menstruation without success, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced during pregnancy. If the test is positive, it would confirm pregnancy; if negative, it may indicate that other factors are at play.

There are several reasons for a delayed period aside from pregnancy:
1. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to irregular menstrual cycles. Hormonal fluctuations can also be caused by stress, significant weight changes, or underlying health issues.

2. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: As you mentioned working in an ice shop and consuming a lot of ice and watermelon, lifestyle factors can significantly impact your menstrual cycle. High-stress levels, changes in diet, or excessive physical activity can lead to missed periods.

3. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or other endocrine issues, can affect menstrual regularity. It may be worth consulting a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if your period does not return soon.

4. Age and Menstrual Cycle Variability: Depending on your age, menstrual cycles can naturally vary. If you are in your late teens to early twenties, it is common for cycles to be irregular as your body adjusts.

If you suspect pregnancy, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a blood test, which is more sensitive than a home pregnancy test and can detect pregnancy earlier. Additionally, if you continue to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle, a healthcare provider can help identify any underlying issues and provide appropriate treatment options.

In summary, while pregnancy is a possibility, it is not the only explanation for your delayed menstruation. Taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider will provide clarity and help you understand the next steps. Remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and regular check-ups can contribute positively to your reproductive health.

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