Could I Be Pregnant? Symptoms and Hormonal Effects

Is it possible to get pregnant?

In April, my blood test showed elevated male hormones.
I induced my period in April, and after my period started on April 1, I began taking birth control pills on the fourth day to regulate my cycle.
My period came again on April 28, and I continued taking the pills starting on the fourth day.
However, I stopped taking the pills for three days on May 11, 12, and 13.
After my period started again on May 14, I called my gynecologist, who advised me to continue taking the pills, which I did, but I did not stop as instructed.
I continued taking them until June 3.
We have not been using any contraception during sexual intercourse because we are planning to conceive.
Currently, as of July 2, my period has not arrived.
After some recent sexual encounters, I noticed light pink blood when urinating, and now it has turned into a dark brown color but in very small amounts.
A few days ago, I experienced lower back pain and slight discomfort in my lower abdomen.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant?

Ke Ke, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if there is a possibility of pregnancy and your period is late by more than a week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/07/02

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation regarding your menstrual cycle, hormonal treatments, and potential pregnancy. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity.

Firstly, based on your timeline, it appears that you have been on hormonal treatments, specifically birth control pills, to regulate your menstrual cycle. Birth control pills can sometimes cause changes in your menstrual cycle, including lighter periods or even missed periods, especially if they are not taken consistently. Since you mentioned that you had a period on May 14 and then stopped taking the pills, it's important to note that your body may still be adjusting to the hormonal changes.

The symptoms you described—such as the absence of your period as of July 2, mild abdominal pain, and changes in your urinary output—could potentially indicate pregnancy, especially since you mentioned that you have not been using contraception with the intention of conceiving. The presence of light pink or brown discharge can sometimes be associated with implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. However, it can also be related to hormonal fluctuations or other non-pregnancy-related issues.

Given that you have a history of elevated male hormones, it’s also worth considering how this might affect your menstrual cycle and ovulation. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to irregular cycles and may complicate the process of conception. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test for a more definitive answer. These tests are generally reliable and can provide you with information about your pregnancy status.

If the test is positive, or if you continue to experience unusual symptoms, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test to confirm pregnancy and check hormone levels, which will give you a clearer picture of your reproductive health. Additionally, they can provide guidance on managing any symptoms you may be experiencing and discuss any necessary prenatal care.

In summary, while your symptoms could suggest pregnancy, they could also be attributed to hormonal changes from your recent use of birth control. Taking a home pregnancy test and consulting with your healthcare provider will be the best course of action to clarify your situation and ensure that you receive appropriate care moving forward. Remember, early prenatal care is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you have any concerns.

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