Missed Period and Pregnancy Test: When to Consult a Doctor?

Delayed menstruation and pregnancy testing issues?

The menstrual cycle is approximately 30 days.
Last month, it was delayed by 4 days, and it was expected to start on the 15th of this month.
Today is the 21st, and it still hasn't started.
I took a pregnancy test on the morning of the 19th, which was the 5th day of the missed period, and it was negative.
However, today is the 7th day of the missed period, and it still hasn't come.
Current symptoms include white discharge and abdominal discomfort.
Should I take another pregnancy test, or is it better to see a doctor directly? Thank you for your hard work, doctor.

Yan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/21

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The menstrual cycle is approximately 30 days.
Last month, it was delayed by 4 days, so it was expected to start on the 15th of this month.
Today is the 21st, and it still hasn't started.
On the morning of the 19th, I took a pregnancy test on the 5th day, which was negative.
However, today is the 7th day, and it still hasn't started.
Current symptoms include white discharge and abdominal discomfort.

1.
When should I take another pregnancy test? Answer: Test again on June 26.
2.
Should I see a doctor instead of testing again? Answer: Either option is fine.

Reply Date: 2017/06/21

More Info

When dealing with a missed period and the possibility of pregnancy, it is important to approach the situation with caution and awareness of your body’s signals. Given that your menstrual cycle is typically around 30 days and you experienced a delay of four days last month, followed by a missed period this month, it is understandable that you are feeling concerned.
In your case, since you have already taken a pregnancy test on the fifth day after your missed period and it returned negative, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, it is not uncommon for home pregnancy tests to yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. The hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is detected by pregnancy tests, may not be present in sufficient quantities to be detected if the test is taken too soon after a missed period. Therefore, if your period does not arrive soon, it may be worthwhile to take another test a few days later, ideally after a week of missed menstruation, to ensure accurate results.

The presence of white discharge and abdominal discomfort can be indicative of various conditions, including hormonal fluctuations, stress, or even early signs of pregnancy. However, these symptoms alone are not definitive indicators of pregnancy. It is also possible that your menstrual cycle may be irregular due to factors such as stress, changes in weight, or lifestyle alterations, which can all affect hormonal balance and menstrual regularity.

If your period does not arrive within a week of your missed date, or if you continue to experience discomfort or any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor can perform a more sensitive blood test to measure hCG levels, which can provide a clearer picture of whether you are pregnant. Additionally, they can conduct a thorough examination to rule out other potential issues, such as ovarian cysts or hormonal imbalances, that may be causing your symptoms.

In summary, while it is reasonable to wait a few more days to retest for pregnancy, it is equally important to listen to your body. If you feel that something is not right or if your symptoms worsen, seeking medical advice sooner rather than later is the best course of action. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the necessary guidance and support during this time.

Similar Q&A

Could I Be Pregnant? Understanding Timing and Testing After Intercourse

I'm sorry, but I can't provide medical advice. However, if you are concerned about a possible pregnancy, it is generally recommended to wait until the first day of your missed period to take a home pregnancy test for the most accurate result. If your period is already l...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Let's wait and see. Wishing you good health.

Missed Period and Negative Pregnancy Test: When to Seek Medical Advice?

The first day of my last menstrual period was on February 6, and my cycle has not been very regular. Today is March 26, and I took a pregnancy test last night on March 25, which showed that I am not pregnant. Should I wait another two days or seek medical attention?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Missed Period After Intercourse: When to See a Doctor?

You had intercourse with withdrawal on the 13th and took a pregnancy test on the 27th, which showed one line. Your menstrual cycles have been normal, and your period was due on the 26th but has not arrived yet. Should you see a doctor?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, the chances of pregnancy are not low. If your period is only a few days late, it may not necessarily show up on a test. I recommend that if your period is a week late, you should take a urine test to check for pregnancy. Thank you! Wishing you pe...

Missed Period: When to Take a Pregnancy Test?

Hello Doctor, my menstrual cycle is usually regular, with dates on 19/3, 18/2, 22/1, 24/12, and 27/11. We had intimate contact on 24/3, 26/3, and 12/4. Today is the 20th, and my period has not arrived yet. Should I buy a pregnancy test to check, or when would it be accurate to te...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: There is indeed a possibility of pregnancy. Generally, a urine test can confirm pregnancy about two to three weeks after conception.