Delayed Periods: Pregnancy Concerns and Next Steps

Delayed menstruation?

Hello, I had my period on the 10th of last month, and my cycle has always been regular.
I had sexual intercourse on May 30th, and at the beginning, we did not use a condom for about 2-3 minutes.
Later, we used a condom, but he did not ejaculate.
My period was supposed to start on the 11th of this month, but it has not arrived yet.
I took two pregnancy tests on the 16th and 17th, and both showed only one line.
Yesterday, on the 18th, I experienced abdominal pain and went to the hospital.
They tested my urine, and it still indicated no pregnancy.
However, the hospital performed an abdominal X-ray and drew blood.
I am now very worried that if the urine test was incorrect, and I am indeed pregnant, the X-ray could harm the baby.

1.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?
2.
My period is now 5 days late, and for the past two days, my abdomen has felt very bloated, and I sometimes feel nauseous.
3.
When should I take another pregnancy test?
4.
How long should I wait to confirm that I am not pregnant?
Thank you.

chong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/16

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Last month, my period started on the 10th, and it has always been regular.
I had sexual intercourse on the 30th and 31st, initially without a condom for about 2-3 minutes, but then I used a condom and did not ejaculate.
My period was due on the 11th of this month, but it hasn't arrived yet.
I took two pregnancy tests on the 16th and 17th, and both showed only one line.
Yesterday, on the 18th, I experienced abdominal pain and went to the hospital.
They tested my urine, and it still indicated that I am not pregnant.
However, the hospital performed an abdominal X-ray and drew blood.
I'm really worried that if the urine test was incorrect, and I am indeed pregnant, the X-ray could harm the baby.

1.
What is the chance of pregnancy in this situation?
Answer: The chance of pregnancy is low.
2.
My period is now 5 days late, and my abdomen feels very bloated, sometimes with nausea.
When should I take another pregnancy test?
Answer: Take another pregnancy test on June 23rd.
3.
How long should I wait to confirm that I am not pregnant?
Answer: If you take a pregnancy test on June 23rd and it still shows only one line, you can consider it a confirmation of not being pregnant.
If your period does not come, you may need to induce menstruation.

Reply Date: 2017/06/16

More Info

When it comes to understanding delayed periods and the concerns surrounding potential pregnancy, it's essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the biological processes involved, as well as the appropriate steps to take. Based on your description, you have experienced a delay in your menstrual cycle, which is typically a sign that warrants further investigation, especially given your recent sexual activity.

1. Understanding the Chances of Pregnancy: The likelihood of pregnancy from the scenario you described depends on several factors, including the timing of your menstrual cycle and the nature of the sexual activity. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you had unprotected intercourse close to ovulation, there is a possibility of conception. However, since you have taken two pregnancy tests that returned negative results, and a urine test at the hospital also confirmed that you are not pregnant, the chances of pregnancy seem low.
2. Symptoms and Delayed Menstruation: The symptoms you are experiencing, such as abdominal bloating and occasional nausea, can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, or even premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to be irregular occasionally due to stress, changes in weight, or other lifestyle factors. If your period is delayed by more than a week, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

3. When to Retest for Pregnancy: If your period does not arrive within a week of the expected date, you may consider retesting for pregnancy. Home pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, as they measure the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) that is produced during pregnancy. If you continue to receive negative results but still do not get your period, it may be beneficial to seek medical advice.

4. Determining Non-Pregnancy: Generally, if you have had two negative pregnancy tests and a negative urine test at the hospital, it is likely that you are not pregnant. However, if you experience persistent symptoms or if your period does not return within a reasonable timeframe (typically a few weeks), it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing, such as a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than urine tests.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy seem low based on your negative tests, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms and menstrual cycle closely. If you have concerns about your health or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice and support, ensuring that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to navigating any health concerns effectively.

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